Staffordshire Extensive Urban Survey: Stafford

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STAFFORDSHIRE EXTENSIVE URBAN SURVEY

STAFFORD Historic Character Assessment

JUNE 2009 REVISED AUGUST 2011

Staffordshire County Council English Heritage DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

STAFFORDSHIRE EXTENSIVE URBAN SURVEY

STAFFORD, STAFFORD BOROUGH

CONTROLLED DOCUMENT

Staffordshire County Council EC4609.R03 Document No: Status: Draft Rev. No: 4

Name Signature Date Prepared by: Debbie Langley 01/07/2009 Checked by: Stephen Dean 13/10/2011 SCC Approved:

Revision Record Rev. Date By Summary of Changes Chkd Aprvd 1. 28/07/2009 DAL Following comments from Matthew SAD SAD Blake (Stafford Record Office) 2. 26/08/2011 DAL Re-working of report following SAD SAD amendments to methodology agreed in 2009. 3. 13/10/2011 DAT Following comments and editing SAD SAD from Stephen Dean

4. 12/03/2012 DAT Following comments and editing from Naomi Perry and Penny McKnight (Stafford Borough Council)

2 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

Cultural Environment Team Environment and Countryside Development Services Directorate Staffordshire County Council Riverway Stafford ST16 3TJ

Tel: 01785 277285 Email: [email protected]

Mapping in this volume is based upon the Ordnance Survey mapping with the permission of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationary Office © Crown copyright and/or database right 2011 all rights reserved. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. Staffordshire County Council Licence No. 100019422

August 2011

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CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... 8 Introduction ...... 12 Background ...... 12 Aim ...... 13 Outputs ...... 13 PART ONE: BACKGROUND AND SETTING ...... 14 Section summary ...... 14 1. Setting ...... 17 1.1 Location ...... 17 1.2 Geology & Topography ...... 18 1.3 Sources ...... 20 1.3.1 Historical ...... 20 1.3.2 Cartographic ...... 20 1.3.3 Archaeological ...... 20 2. Context and historical development ...... 21 2.1 Prehistoric ...... 21 2.2 Roman (AD43 to AD409) ...... 23 2.3 Early Medieval Part 1(AD 410 to AD 913) ...... 25 2.3.1 Placename ...... 25 2.3.2 Economy ...... 26 2.3.3 Religion ...... 28 2.3.4 Settlement ...... 29 2.3.5 Communications ...... 30 2.4 Early Medieval Part 2 (913AD to 1065AD) ...... 30 2.4.1 Burh ...... 30 2.4.2 Settlement ...... 31 2.4.3 Economic ...... 33 2.4.4 Religious ...... 34 2.5 Medieval (1066 to 1499) ...... 34 2.5.1 Town walls ...... 34 2.5.2 Castle...... 37 2.5.3 Settlement ...... 39 2.5.4 Administration and Education ...... 45 2.5.5 Economy ...... 46 2.5.6 Religion ...... 50 2.5.7 Communications ...... 54 2.6 Post Medieval (1500 to 1699) ...... 54 2.6.1 Town walls ...... 54 2.6.2 Castle (Baronial) ...... 55 2.6.3 Settlement ...... 55 2.6.4 Administration, Welfare and Education ...... 58 2.6.5 Economy ...... 60 2.6.6 Religion ...... 63 2.6.7 Communications ...... 64 2.7 18th & 19th century (1700 to 1899) ...... 64 2.7.1 Town Gates ...... 64 2.7.2 Castle (Baronial) ...... 64 2.7.3 Settlement ...... 65

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2.7.4 Administration, Education & Welfare ...... 69 2.7.5 Economy ...... 72 2.7.6 Religion ...... 77 2.7.7 Communications ...... 79 2.8 20th & 21st century (1900 to circa 2010) ...... 80 2.8.1 Settlement ...... 80 2.8.2 Open land and parks ...... 82 2.8.3. Administration, Education & Welfare ...... 82 2.8.4 Economy ...... 85 2.8.5 Religion ...... 87 2.8.6 Communications ...... 87 PART TWO: CHARACTERISATION AND ASSESSMENT ...... 89 Section summary ...... 89 3. Statement of Historic Urban Character ...... 92 3.2 Statement of Historic Urban Character (HUC) ...... 92 3.2.1 Heritage values ...... 92 3.2.2 Assessment of value ...... 94 4. Assessment of Historic Urban Character Areas (HUCA) ...... 97 4.1 HUCA 1: Eastern half of Stafford Town ...... 98 4.1.1 Statement of heritage significance ...... 98 4.1.2 Built Character ...... 100 4.1.3 Heritage values ...... 102 4.1.4 Recommendations ...... 103 4.2 HUCA 2: St Mary’s Church, Stafford ...... 105 4.2.1 Statement of heritage significance ...... 105 4.2.2 Built Character ...... 106 4.2.3 Heritage Values ...... 107 4.2.3 Recommendations ...... 108 4.3 HUCA 3: West of Gaolgate Street and Broadeye ...... 110 4.3.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character ...... 110 4.3.2 Heritage Values ...... 112 4.3.3 Recommendations ...... 113 4.4 HUCA 4: South east of Queensway ...... 115 4.4.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character ...... 115 4.4.2 Heritage Values ...... 117 4.4.3 Recommendations ...... 117 HUCA 5: King’s Pool and Kingsmead Marsh ...... 119 4.5.1 Statement of heritage significance ...... 119 4.5.2 Heritage Values ...... 120 4.5.3 Recommendations ...... 120 4.6 HUCA 6: St George’s Hospital & Stafford Prison ...... 122 4.6.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character ...... 122 4.6.2 Heritage Values ...... 123 4.6.3 Recommendations ...... 124 4.7 HUCA 7: North of Stafford ...... 126 4.7.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character ...... 126 4.7.2 Heritage Values ...... 128 4.7.3 Recommendations ...... 129 4.8 HUCA 8: Coton Field ...... 132 4.8.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character ...... 132

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4.8.2 Heritage Values ...... 134 4.8.3 Recommendations ...... 134 4.9 HUCA 9: Beaconside ...... 136 4.9.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character ...... 136 4.9.2 Heritage Values ...... 137 4.9.3 Recommendations ...... 137 4.10 HUCA 10: Littleworth...... 140 4.10.1 Statement of heritage significance ...... 140 4.10.2 Heritage Values ...... 141 4.10.3 Recommendations ...... 141 4.11 HUCA 11: Lammascote ...... 143 4.11.1 Statement of heritage significance ...... 143 4.11.2 Heritage Values ...... 143 4.11.3 Recommendations ...... 144 4.12 HUCA 12: West of Foregate Street ...... 145 4.12.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character ...... 145 4.12.2 Heritage Values ...... 147 4.12.3 Recommendations ...... 147 4.13 HUCA 13: Marston Brook ...... 148 4.13.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character ...... 148 4.13.2 Heritage Values ...... 149 4.13.3 Recommendations ...... 150 4.14 HUCA 14: Sandon Road ...... 151 4.14.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character ...... 151 4.14.2 Heritage Values ...... 152 4.14.3 Recommendations ...... 152 4.15 HUCA 15: Stafford Common ...... 153 4.15.1 Statement of heritage significance ...... 153 4.15.2 Heritage Values ...... 154 4.15.3 Recommendations ...... 154 4.16 HUCA 16: Stafford Cemetery & Eccleshall Road ...... 155 4.16.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character ...... 155 4.16.2 Heritage Values ...... 156 4.16.3 Recommendations ...... 156 4.17 HUCA 17: Tillington, Holmcroft and Parkfields ...... 158 4.17.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character ...... 158 4.17.2 Heritage Values ...... 159 4.17.3 Recommendations ...... 159 4.18 HUCA 18: Stafford Castle & St Mary’s Church ...... 160 4.18.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character ...... 160 4.18.2 Heritage Values ...... 161 4.18.3 Recommendations ...... 161 4.19 HUCA 19: Castlefields ...... 163 4.19.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character ...... 163 4.19.2 Heritage Values ...... 164 4.19.3 Recommendations ...... 164 4.20 HUCA 20: West of Castletown ...... 166 4.20.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character ...... 166 4.20.2 Heritage Values ...... 167 4.20.3 Recommendations ...... 167

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4.21 HUCA 21: Castletown ...... 168 4.21.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character ...... 168 4.21.2 Heritage Values ...... 169 4.21.3 Recommendations ...... 169 4.22 HUCA 22: Victoria Park ...... 170 4.22.1 Statement of heritage significance ...... 170 4.22.2 Heritage Values ...... 171 4.22.3 Recommendations ...... 171 4.23 HUCA 23: Rowley Park...... 174 4.23.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character ...... 174 4.23.2 Heritage Values ...... 176 4.23.3 Recommendations ...... 177 4.24 HUCA 24: Highfields & Western Downs ...... 178 4.24.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character ...... 178 4.24.2 Heritage Values ...... 179 4.24.3 Recommendations ...... 180 4.25 HUCA 25: Forebridge ...... 181 4.25.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character ...... 181 4.25.2 Heritage values ...... 184 4.25.3 Recommendations ...... 184 4.26 HUCA 26: Lichfield Road ...... 187 4.26.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character ...... 187 4.26.2 Heritage values ...... 188 4.26.3 Recommendations ...... 188 4.27 HUCA 27: Queensville ...... 189 4.27.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character ...... 189 4.27.2 Heritage values ...... 190 4.27.3 Recommendations ...... 190 4.28 HUCA 28: Risingbrook & Rickerscote ...... 192 4.28.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character ...... 192 4.28.2 Heritage Values ...... 194 4.28.3 Recommendations ...... 194 5. Bibliography ...... 195

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Project

The main aim of the Staffordshire EUS is to understand the development and the current historic character of the medieval towns within the county.

The project reports for the towns are divided into two sections. Section one covers the location and historical development of the towns. The history covers the earliest evidence for human activity through to the establishment of the town in the medieval period and through to the present day. Section two covers the characterisation of the town through the creation of Historic Urban Character Areas (HUCAs). The historical significance of each HUCA is assessed and recommendations are put forward.

Twenty-eight Historic Urban Character Areas (HUCAs) have been identified in the project for Stafford.

The Historical Development of Stafford

There is some evidence for human activity within the EUS project area prior to the early medieval period. However, this relates mostly to stray finds and environmental data from the former King’s Pool, which lay to the east of the town centre. Two sites have identified Iron Age activity in the form of grain processing at St Mary’s Church and evidence for a possible causeway to the east of the town, near Lammascote Road. The evidence for Roman activity relates mostly to pottery finds within the town, but it has been suggested that the north-south route based on Greengate Street/Gaolgate Street, forms part of a Roman road (Meeson pers comm).

Aethelflaed established a burh at Stafford in 913AD and there is good evidence for settlement dating to the early medieval period. What has not been entirely established is how much of this evidence may pre-date the establishment of the burh. Arguably the most important site found at Stafford for the early medieval period are the pottery kilns, mostly located around Tipping Street with one found on Salter Street. This pottery industry appears to have traded its wares across the West Midlands but examples have been found in Chester, Worcester and in Dublin. However, a true understanding of its economic importance is undermined by the fact that it has not been the subject of a detailed analysis.

The origins of the county are unclear, but Stafford was chosen as the county town during the medieval period. It is clear from Domesday Book (1086) that it was a fully functioning town with burgesses and a town wall. It is likely that a market also existed particularly as there is no known market charter. The importance of the market to the economy of Stafford continued throughout the following centuries; the late 20th century market hall still forms an important part of the retail economy of the town. Two earlier market places have been identified within the townscape and the medieval burgage plots are still legible along several of its streets.

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As the county town Stafford became a focus for administrative and public buildings throughout the medieval and post-medieval period. Those extant in the town include the late 18th century Shire Hall and late 19th century county buildings as well as the late 20th century Borough Council offices.

Whilst Stafford had been a focus of industrial activity since at least the early medieval period; it became increasingly important to the local economy from the 19th century onwards. By the mid 19th century the manufacture of shoes and boots was the predominant industry, to the extent that it became concentrated to the north of the town where several manufactories survive alongside streets of terraced houses. However, the last shoe factory closed in the 1990s. Engineering, which largely originated to service the shoe industry, continues to be an important component of the local economy.

The earliest suburban activity dates to the medieval period and was located outside the north and south gates of the town, at Foregate and Forebridge respectively. In these suburbs four religious houses were established although no trace of them survives within the townscape other than in street names. Housing expansion beyond the historic town core proliferated from the 19th century in the form of both terraces and villas. However, the period of the greatest expansion was the mid 20th century when large housing estates, including that built for RAF Stafford at Beaconside, were constructed.

Characterisation and Assessment

The HUCAs’ which exhibit the greatest heritage significance are those which lie within the historic town core (HUCA 1 and HUCA 2), also just beyond the town walls (HUCA 22) and Stafford Castle (HUCA 18). HUCA 3 also lies within the historic core and there remains a high potential for archaeological deposits to survive across this area as has been shown by previous interventions.

The greatest concentration of listed buildings within the EUS project area lies within HUCA 1. There is the potential for any of the historic buildings, whether listed or not, to retain earlier fabric within their structures as has recently been demonstrated at the Old Post Office on Greengate Street.

The location of the medieval suburbs lies within HUCA 7 and HUCA 25. Both of these HUCAs are also important for the later suburban development which dates from the 19th century. HUCA 7 in particular incorporates the industrial suburb where the shoe industry developed from the mid 19th century. Several of the shoe manufactories survive alongside the terraced housing.

Historic settlement has also been identified in HUCA 28 in the form of cottages which form the original historic core of Rickerscote. The Grade II listed Rowley Hall, an early 19th century country house, survives in HUCA 23 and may stand on the site of medieval settlement.

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The landscape park associated with the country house has largely been developed for housing.

HUCAs which make a positive contribution to the local character of Stafford include those where there is a good survival of 19th and early 20th century suburban development. This development includes those suburbs principally comprising large villas such as at HUCA 16, HUCA 23, HUCA 24 and HUCA 27. Similar development is also found in HUCA 25. The purpose built suburb of Castletown, which is comprised of mid 19th century terraced houses, is also well preserved and is closely associated with the railway (HUCA 21). Further terraced housing making an important contribution to the history of Stafford and the local character of the townscape is to be found in HUCA 7, HUCA 8 and HUCA 23. Burton Manor Conservation Area lies within HUCA 23; this early 20th century development was planned upon the principles of the ‘Garden City’ movement, although the full scheme was not implemented. Other contemporary suburban development within Stafford may also have been guided by at least some of the same principles.

Areas of open space also contribute to the historic character of the HUCAs. This includes the mid 19th century cemetery in HUCA 16 and Stafford Common (HUCA 15). The latter is an area of common land given to the inhabitants of Stafford in the early 19th century. It had formed part of a medieval open field and earthworks relating to this period of its history survive across the character area. HUCA 11 comprises 20th century sports grounds, but there are areas where 18th/19th century water meadow systems potentially survive.

Historic industrial buildings survive and contribute significantly to the historic character of HUCA 7. A further 19th century factory survives, with later alterations and extensions, within HUCA 20. The Castle Engine Works was built for W. G. Bagnall Ltd who built railway locomotives at the site until 1961. The works makes an important historic and townscape contribution to Stafford.

HUCA 6 is dominated by 19th century institutional buildings, HM Stafford Prison and the former county lunatic asylum, later St George’s Hospital. The historic buildings associated with these two complexes are all Grade II listed in acknowledgment of their national importance. The earliest block within the prison dates to the late 18th century.

Archaeological potential has been recognised in several HUCAs including those already identified. There is also a high potential for surviving archaeology in HUCA 4, HUCA 5 and HUCA 28 and a moderate potential in HUCA 9, HUCA 11, HUCA 12, HUCA 19, HUCA 23 and HUCA 27.

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HUCAs which have been identified as having an overall low heritage significance and value are HUCA 10, HUCA 13, HUCA 14, HUCA 17 and HUCA 26. These HUCAs generally comprise 20th century development, with the exception of HUCA 13 and HUCA 26 which are industrial in character. Despite their overall low values historic buildings, which contribute to the history of the town and may be worthy of local listing, survive in all of the HUCAs with the exception of HUCA 14 and HUCA 26.

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Introduction

This Historic Character Assessment report for Stafford forms one of twenty- three such reports which make up the Extensive Urban Survey (EUS) for the towns of Staffordshire. The EUS project as a whole intends to increase and synthesise the knowledge and understanding of the heritage assets that contribute to the development and character of the towns in the county.

The Staffordshire EUS Project forms part of the national programme of Extensive Urban Surveys initiated and supported by English Heritage.

The project constitutes a progression of the Historic Landscape Character (HLC) project which was completed for Staffordshire in 2006. The HLC was undertaken principally using maps of 1:10,000 scale and the results reaffirmed Staffordshire as a predominantly rural county. However, the scale at which the HLC was produced has meant that the more urban areas, where greater levels of change have tended to occur on a smaller scale, were not analysed in any great depth. In the HLC the central areas of the towns were described as ‘Historic Core’ or ‘Pre 1880s Settlement’ and the phases of development and their current character were not considered beyond that broad terminology. The EUS therefore aims to rectify these issues through a consideration of all the sources available on each of Staffordshire’s historic towns to deepen the understanding of and to apply value to the historic character of these townscapes.

The information gained from the study can be used to support and inform a variety of planning policies from national objectives down to the local policies which form the Local Development Frameworks (LDFs).

Each of the Historic Character Assessment reports are statements of current knowledge and are not intended to be original research documents. Each report addresses the research questions laid out in the West Midlands Research Framework, by synthesising the data gathered on each of the towns. The EUS thereby also provides a basis for future research into the towns.

Background

A pilot study for Newcastle-under-Lyme was carried out in January 2007. Following this an assessment was undertaken to determine which towns in Staffordshire would be eligible for an Extensive Urban Survey. As a result twenty-three towns were identified for study. The selection criteria were based upon three studies of Staffordshire towns by historians and historical geographers who identified the medieval or early post medieval characteristics determining how towns differ from rural settlements. Such criteria included the form of the settlement; the presence of burgage plots1

1 Burgage plot: A plot of land longer than it is wide, can include any structures on it. Typical of medieval towns. (Scope note reproduced from the Thesaurus of Monument Types by kind permission of English Heritage. © 2008 English Heritage)

12 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment and formal market places whether physically surviving, referenced in historical documents or identifiable on historic mapping. It also took into account the references to medieval organisations such as guilds and to the construction of civic buildings such as town or market halls. The diversity and nature of the occupations of the inhabitants were also included; the greater the range and the less agricultural focused the more likely to represent an urban settlement2.

Aim

The main aim of the Staffordshire EUS is to understand the development and the current historic character of the towns. The towns are evaluated to identify the nature and extent of surviving historic environment assets whether as standing structures, below ground archaeological deposits or in the surviving historic town plan.

Outputs

The results are to be held as part of the Staffordshire Historic Environment Record (HER) in a database and spatially in GIS.

The principal outputs are the Historic Character Assessment reports for each town. These are be available as hard copies, but are also accessible through two websites. The national programme is currently held on the ADS website3 and there is a further website hosted by Staffordshire County Council4.

2 Hunt (nd.) 3 Archaeology Data Service website: http://ads.ahds.ac.uk/ 4 Staffordshire website address

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PART ONE: BACKGROUND AND SETTING

Section summary

There is evidence for human activity within the EUS area during the Prehistoric and Roman periods. Environmental evidence from cores taken from peat deposits lying within the former King’s Pool have contributed significantly to an understanding of the local landscape, as well as the national model for the prehistoric environment. The samples suggest episodes of woodland burning during the Mesolithic; such fires may have been deliberately set by humans although there is currently little further evidence of activity. Large-scale woodland clearance, for farm land, intensified from the Neolithic through to the Iron Age and Roman period. Scattered finds of Neolithic and Bronze Age artefacts attest to some wider activity although it is not well understood at present. There is little evidence for settlement within the area of the town in either the Iron Age or Roman period, but evidence for activity is in greater abundance. There is evidence for the processing of grain in the Iron Age in the area of St Mary’s church in the town centre, as well as the possibility of an Iron Age causeway to the east. Roman pottery sherds have been discovered on a number of sites within the town centre including a whole pot discovered in Market Square. It has been postulated that the north/south route through the town (focused upon Gaolgate Street/ Greengate Street) was a Roman road5.

Despite several excavations in the 1970s/80s and more recent interventions our understanding as to whether Stafford was settled prior to the documented establishment of Aethelflaed’s burh in 913 is still unclear. This EUS report has been completed prior to the publication of Martin Carver’s summary of works on the early excavations in Stafford and in advance of the publication of results of the 2009 Tipping Street excavations. It is anticipated that this EUS will be reprised at the end of the formal EUS project to take account of recent advances in knowledge.

However, there is ample evidence of settlement and industrial activity dating to the early medieval period in Stafford, whether or not it proves to have pre- or post-dated the burh. Arguably the most important features are the pottery kilns principally found in and around Tipping Street, with one excavated in Salter Street. The pottery, known as Stafford ware, has potentially been found in other Midlands excavations. However, accurate dating has traditionally been an issue and our understanding of the influence of the Stafford pottery kilns would be greatly enhanced by an analysis of the wares. Other evidence has included a tannery, although not closely dated, on North

5 Meeson pers. comm.

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Walls, ovens or grain drying kilns near St Mary’s Church and the earliest phases of St Bertelin’s chapel.

It is clear that Stafford was a fully functioning town at the time of Domesday Book; the town’s entry records both burgesses and a town wall. The street plan of the town dates to at least the medieval period, although it is currently unclear to what extent it was influenced by the earlier settlement. Burgage plots are still visible within the street-scene particularly along the north of Eastgate Street, Mill Street, Greengate Street and Gaolgate Street, although many of the rear plots have been developed from at least the 19th century onwards. Re-development in these streets, particularly the 19th century administrative buildings to the east of Market Square and the late 20th century retail development on the western side of Gaolgate Street has removed the legible evidence for the burgage plots.

The street pattern reveals that two market places existed in Stafford; the Market Square and the junction of Eastgate Street and Tipping Street. Stafford does not have a market charter suggesting that the market function pre-dated this legal requirement. Both market places continued to be used into the 19th century, although new market halls were built in mid 19th century and in the late 20th century.

A castle was established by the Normans on the western side of the town at Broadeye. This had fallen into disrepair by 1086 but appears to have been repaired in the 12th century, before falling into disuse in the 13th century. The extant Stafford castle situated approximately 2km to the west of the town appears to have been established in the late 11th century by the baron, Robert de Stafford, along with a settlement known as Monetville. The settlement did not survive although the site, along with the castle, is protected as a Scheduled Monument. The castle was rebuilt and repaired on several occasions in the medieval period and three deer parks were established. The extant stone keep dates to circa 1811.

Suburban development had occurred by the 11th/12th century beyond the southern town gate at Forebridge and the northern gate at Foregate. Archaeological evidence for suburban activity at Forebridge has been identified. Religious houses were established in both suburbs; a Franciscan Friary, Greyfriars, to the north and Austin Friars to the south. Neither institution survives except in the name of streets. Two hospitals were also established in Forebridge, St John’s and St Leonard’s. Again neither complex has left any trace in the modern townscape, although St Leonard’s is recalled in the name of a street and a Grade II Listed early 20th century school.

The county town Stafford has long been a centre for administration, although during the medieval and post medieval period it vied with

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Lichfield and Wolverhampton over the right to hold the itinerant courts. The Shire Hall was rebuilt in the late 16th century to enhance this right to hold the courts. The Grade II* Shire Hall was built in the late 18th century and was used as the county court until the late 20th century. A Borough Hall was built in 1877 and the first of the county council administrative buildings were constructed in 1895. These buildings were extended several times during the 20th century, whilst the Borough Council had new offices built in 1977. The town also attracted county-wide institutions such as the extant HM Stafford Prison on Gaol Road and the two asylums. The earliest prison block, which is Grade II listed, was built in the late 18th century and the site also contains a unique early 19th century block known as ‘The Crescent’. The extant Grade II listed building of St George’s Hospital was built as the county lunatic asylum in 1818 and still largely survives intact. Cotonhill Lunatic Asylum was established in the mid 19th century and is now mostly demolished. St George’s became a hospital in 1940, but has since closed, whilst Cotonhill Asylum was redeveloped as Stafford General Hospital in the 1970s. The buildings of the earliest hospital, Stafford Infirmary, constructed in the late 18th century, but significantly altered in the late 19th century survive on Foregate Street and currently form part of a retail park.

Stafford developed as an important industrial town from the late 18th century onwards whose principal industry was women’s and children’s shoes. This industry encouraged associated production particularly of timber, for the heels, and engineering for the machinery used in shoe making. The shoe industry relocated from the centre of the town to parts of Foregate Field in the 1860s when new streets, terraced housing and several shoe manufactories were constructed. The shoe industry declined in the mid 20th century with the last manufacturer, Lotus Shoes, closing in circa 1998. However, engineering still comprises a key employment area in Stafford with large works being located to the south west of the town centre.

The success of industry during the 19th century is probably closely linked to the expansion of the suburbs during the same period. Areas of 19th century terraced houses survive to both the north of the town centre, where they are associated with the surviving shoe factories and to the north east and south. Villa developments were also a feature of this period, which generally lay beyond the area of the terraces and were aimed at the factory owners and their social contemporaries. These houses survive along Eccleshall Road, Lichfield Road and Newport Road.

However, the greatest period of suburban expansion occurred in the mid 20th century (cf. map 11) and included the development of associated services such as parks, sports grounds, allotments and schools. A small estate at Burton Manor, now forming a Conservation Area, was architect-built in the 1920s following Garden City principles. Other housing estates, particularly those built by the council after 1919

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are also likely to have been constructed taking into account some of these same principles. In the mid 20th century military housing was constructed at Beaconside for RAF Stafford. The street pattern reflects a regimented military style in the grid pattern layout.

1. Setting

1.1 Location

Stafford is the county town and lies almost in the centre of Staffordshire (map 1). The historic core of Stafford lies within the valley of the River Sow, which has its confluence with the River Penk approximately 2.7km to the east of the town centre.

This product includes mapping licensed from Ordnance Survey with the permission of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Office © Crown copyright and/or database right 2009. All rights reserved. Licence number 100019422.

Map 1: Location

Traditionally the primary route through the town has been that running north- south, which links Stafford with the towns of Stone and Newcastle, to the north, and Penkridge and Wolverhampton, to the south. The southerly route is now the A449 and the northerly route the A34. There are a further three routes which converge on Stafford town centre. There is a route which leaves Stafford in a north easterly direction, along the A518, towards Uttoxeter; a

17 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment south westerly route, also the A518 towards Newport and a route leaving the town from the south west along the A34 towards Rugeley and Lichfield. A further route towards Eccleshall (A5013) leaves the A34 to the north of Stafford. The towns mentioned were all established during the medieval period. In the late 20th century the town was by-passed to the west by the M6.

1.2 Geology & Topography

Map 2: Terrain types of Stafford town centre and the Second Edition 6” OS map

The landscape of the EUS project area is generally low lying with few areas standing above 100m AOD6. The exceptions to this general pattern lie to the far north at Parkside and to the south west at the Western Downs. Stafford Castle (HUCA 18 on map 3), also lying to the south west of the town centre, stands on the highest point within the project area at approximately 138m AOD. There are two hills lying to the north east of the town in the area of Beaconside, one being known as Kingston Hill, which also lie at just over 100m AOD (HUCA 9 on map 3). The historic core of Stafford lies within the valley of the River Sow, the lowest points lying around 75m AOD. Map 2 reflects how the historic core lies upon a lowland river terrace comprising deposits of glaciofluvial gravels (Terrain Type: Alrewas on map 2)7. The valley floodplain (Terrain type: Catholme’) almost entirely surrounds the town centre; the areas to the west and east are still largely wetland areas in the modern townscape (that to the west comprised the King’s Pool in the medieval period). This area is managed as a local nature reserve, the Kingsmead Marshes. Much of the surrounding marshland was drained from

6 Above Ordnance Datum 7 Staffordshire County Council 2004: 12

18 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment the post medieval period onwards which has enabled some development across the former marshy areas; however most of the river valley area survives as fields due to its wet nature. The river valley has a surface geology of alluvium which has been deposited during flooding8.

Map 3: Terrain types

8 Ibid: 7

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Map 3 shows the terrain types of the wider EUS area which are clearly dominated by the lower river terrace (Terrain type: Alrewas)9. However, to the south the land rises slightly to lie between 85m AOD and 95m AOD, which coincides with a change to the terrain (Terrain type: Dunston)10. This terrain type generally lies above the limit of flooding and has an underlying solid geology principally comprising soft Mercia mudstones. The highest land of the EUS area, as noted above, all lies within the Terrain type ‘Colton’ which is typified by a rolling landform of Mercia mudstones with deep loams11.

1.3 Sources

1.3.1 Historical

The sources consulted have all been secondary in nature and the principal records are two volumes of the Victoria County History (VCH) for Staffordshire volumes. Volume V covers the area to the south and west of the town centre which formed part of Castle Church parish and volume VI which covers the remainder of the modern town. The historical study of Stafford Castle, carried out in 2001, has also been consulted12.

1.3.2 Cartographic

The earliest plans of Stafford town centre all date to the 17th century. The first is a copy of an anonymous map the original dating to c.160013. John Speeds’ map dates to 1610 and a further anonymous map dates to 168114. There is only one detailed map of Stafford dating to the 18th century and that details Lord Stafford’s lands and interests in the town which was drawn by James Sheriff in 1788. William Yates’ map of the county (1775) depicts the town of Stafford, but in no detail although it is useful to determine the trends of settlement across the modern extent of the town.

The 19th century maps include two town plans one by John Wood (1835) and the other dating to 1838, which also depicts the lands to the north and south of the town centre. The series of Ordnance Survey maps both 6” and 25” which were published four times between 1880 and 1938 were also extensively consulted.

1.3.3 Archaeological

Archaeological work has mostly been focused within the historic core of the town with research and archaeological work being carried out at Stafford Castle to the south west of the town between 1978 and 1998. Several salvage recordings of archaeological interest were carried out prior to the 1970s. An in-depth excavation was carried out on the site of St Bertelin’s

9 Ibid: 12 10 Ibid: 20 11 Ibid: 26 12 Darlington (ed.): 2001 13 WSL 55/2/74 14 Greenslade et al. 1979: 188; WSL 66/92

20 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment chapel in the 1950s. Between 1975 and c.1988 Birmingham University undertook approximately 25 archaeological interventions in advance of development or as evaluations with the aim of understanding the Early Medieval and Medieval development of the burh and town. A history of the Early Medieval development of Stafford, based upon all the archaeological work carried out in the town, was published by Professor Martin Carver in 2010. The most recent large-scale excavation took place in Tipping Street in advance of the construction of Staffordshire County Council’s new office development in 2009. The results of this work are due for release in 2012. Consequently it is intended that the Early Medieval and Medieval sections of Stafford’s EUS project will be re-visited to take into account the results of these two pieces of work. Around 20 archaeological interventions have been undertaken as developer funded projects since PPG 1615 was implemented in 1990.

2. Context and historical development

2.1 Prehistoric

The earliest evidence for likely human activity in the area around Stafford comes from environmental samples taken from peat deposits at the site of the former King’s Pool which lay just beyond North Walls along Lammascote Drain (HUCA 5). The study suggests that during the Mesolithic period the landscape was woodland comprised of oak, pine and elm, which may have been encouraged by rising temperatures. Charcoal deposits in the environmental samples suggest that this woodland was being burnt, possibly through human agency over a sustained period, creating discrete areas of open ground16. There is currently little other evidence for human activity in the Mesolithic period within the EUS project area other than one flint core from Clarke Street.17 The nearest dated site lies 11km to the south east, where flints dating to the Late Mesolithic were discovered within what has been interpreted as a probable hunting camp18.

There is greater evidence for human activity for the later prehistoric periods in the wider area with concentrations within the Trent Valley. Known Neolithic activity is currently restricted to stray finds of flint tools at Acton Trussell, Coppenhall, Bednall and Hopton. However, the environmental evidence from King’s Pool and an excavation to the south of the Lammascote Road suggests that forest clearances were occurring from the Neolithic period and intensifying from the mid-late Bronze Age onwards, which follows a pattern identified for much of the country. It is likely that there were very few trees in this landscape, which was becoming open with some heathland appearing. By the late Bronze Age this open landscape was probably supporting a small- scale mixed farming system of arable and pasture and this pattern continued

15 PPG 16 - Planning Policy Guidance Note 16: Archaeology and Planning published November 1990. 16 Bartley & Morgan 1990:188-189; Greig 2007: 43 17 Walker 1976: 6 18 Staffordshire HER: PRN 04005; Hilton 1979: 7

21 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment to intensify through the Iron Age19. Further evidence for arable cultivation in the Bronze Age has been identified in the Trent Valley approximately 7km to the east of the town20.

There is currently little evidence for settlement during the Bronze Age in the area of Stafford. However, 800m north of the King’s Pool site a scatter of flint tools and debitage was identified which possibly dates to the Neolithic or Bronze Age, although they were originally assigned a Mesolithic date21. A Neolithic/Bronze Age flint scraper has also been found at Kingston Hill and a late Neolithic/Bronze Age flint tool approximately 1.7km to the south22. To the east of Stafford towards the Trent Valley there are two barrow sites of probable Bronze Age date and another is located near Milford on Cannock Chase23. This evidence underscores the presence of people in the area coincident with the expansion of farming identified in the environmental data discussed above.

There are two sites which have been dated to around the mid Iron Age period providing evidence of human activity within and just beyond the area of the medieval town. The first site, just to the north of St Mary’s Church, reveals further evidence for arable cultivation in the area of Stafford where two or three probable granaries were found during an archaeological excavation. The evidence from the granaries revealed that wheat was being grown and stored in the area of Stafford24. The second site produced three large timbers in an area just to the north of the River Sow to the east of Queensway. The function of the timbers was not clear but it is possible, from their size and from where they were found that they may have formed part of a bridge or retaining wall along the river bank25. Two picks formed from red deer antlers were discovered to the north of Lammascote Road which may also be of Iron Age date26. It has been speculated that they may have been related to the construction of a causeway over the eastern marshland, although this is clearly conjectural at present27 (cf. 2.3.1 for discussion on the causeway).

The scheduled Berry Ring hillfort lies approximately 4km to the south west of Stafford, dominating the lowlands. The construction for the hillfort is has not been closely dated, but unstratified finds recovered from within the monument have been dated to the Iron Age28. There is little other evidence for Iron Age activity on the western side of Stafford although the hillfort suggests a

19 Bartley & Morgan 1990: 191; Worcestershire Archaeological Service 1999: 12 20 Staffordshire HER: PRN 04615 21 Ibid: PRN 02107; Debitage: the waste from flint knapping. 22 Ibid: PRN 01944; Ibid: PRN 01943 23 Ibid: PRN 00851 & PRN 00855; Barrow - Artificial mound of earth, turf and/or stone, normally constructed to contain or conceal burials (Scope note reproduced from the Thesaurus of Monument Types by kind permission of English Heritage. © 2008 English Heritage). 24 Moffett 1994: 55; Staffordshire HER: PRN 01613: Emmer & spelt – both early forms of wheat 25 Potteries Museum Field Archaeology Unit 2002: 5 26 Staffordshire HER: PRN 02108 27 Robinson 1968-71: 7 28 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00024; English Heritage SM 21588;RCHME 1996

22 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment centralised power base was present in the area from at least the late Bronze Age/Iron Age. Such a power base would have been capable of directing labour in the construction of major projects and the hillfort would have provided a cultural, economic and administrative focus. This suggests that human activity could have been reasonably intensive in the area of Stafford, as is supported by the environmental data recovered from King’s Pool.

Further evidence for sustained occupation from the Neolithic and into the Roman period exists at Acton Trussell, c.6km to the south of Stafford town centre. The nature of the earlier occupation is not currently clear, although a ditched enclosure is likely to have been present in the Iron Age29. A possible stockade has also been discovered which dated to the late Iron Age, the associated gully having been backfilled in the early Roman period30.

Although this evidence does not confirm a prehistoric precedent for occupation within the historic core of Stafford it does suggest an increasing exploitation of the surrounding landscape in which people were farming and making their homes. Consequently there is the potential for prehistoric sites to have existed within the limits of the modern town of Stafford and beyond.

2.2 Roman (AD43 to AD409)

There is currently fragmentary evidence for Roman occupation within the historic core of Stafford comprising pottery sherds recovered from various archaeological excavations across the town. These include 50-60 sherds of 2nd to 4th century pottery found in Clarke Street; a whole 2nd century pot from Market Square31 as well as several unstratified Roman pottery sherds from archaeological excavations at Bath Street and Tipping Street32. This evidence, although not conclusive, suggests that human activity was continual to a degree from the Iron Age into the Roman period within the area of the town. The Clarke Street site revealed evidence that some land reclamation from marshlands was being undertaken on the eastern side of the town during the Roman period33. However, the extent of this activity across the wider area is not known. The environmental data from King’s Pool also confirms a human presence in this area of the town suggesting that agricultural activity continued well into the Roman period34.

Prior to 1976 five Roman coins had been found within the modern town, although it has been argued that all but one were recent losses. A further two mid 4th century coins were found in the archaeological excavation to the north of St. Mary’s Church35.

29 Staffordshire HER: PRN 04003: PRN 51625 30 Ibid: PRN 51623 31 Walker 1976: 11 - 12 & 66 32 Cane et al 1983: 55 33 Carver 1975: 56 34 Bartley & Morgan 1990: 191 35 Cane et al 1983: 55

23 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

Several commentators have suggested that the significance of the Stafford area lay in the fact that it represented an important crossing point of the River Sow. It has also been suggested that the north-south route, now Gaolgate and Greengate streets, was the line of a Roman road36, presumably leading to a ford across the River Sow in the area of Green Bridge. Alternatively its significance could lie in the location of a causeway crossing the marshland to the east of the modern town centre. This has been suggested as having prehistoric origins although this has not been archaeologically proven. However, it is possible that there was a crossing of the north-south route with an east-west route within the area of the town by the Roman period (cf. 2.1)37.

There is evidence for Roman settlement in the wider area including c.2km to the west of the town near Stafford Castle where the site of a possible villa/farmstead has been identified through the recovery of c.350 pottery sherds of 2nd to 4th century date38. An archaeological evaluation carried out in September 2008 covered an area near to the site of the supposed villa/farmstead and found further evidence of Roman activity including post holes, pits and ditches. The datable pottery was of 4th century date, but the majority of sherds could date to any point within the Roman period39. The pottery suggested that the occupants of this site were active within the wider Roman economy as fine-wares from Warwickshire, Northamptonshire, Oxfordshire and the Severn Valley have been identified40.

The settlement site at Acton Trussell continued into the Roman period where a multi-phase villa has been excavated41. The earliest phase dated to the 1st century AD when a timber building was constructed. Several episodes of rebuilding and alterations followed with the last identifiable phase dating to c. AD 340. However, it is not precisely known when the site ceased to be occupied.

This evidence suggests that there was continuity of activity in the area from the Iron Age into the Roman period, with evidence from the environmental data inferring further intensification in agricultural activity. Although the nature and extent of Roman activity within the historic core of the town is not known there is enough evidence from across the wider area to suggest that it was a significant place by this period42. This may be partly associated with the site of a ford across the river Sow and/or the marshland to the east, suggesting the possibility that Stafford may have been the meeting point of two long distance routes by the Roman period.

36 Stafford Borough Council 1999: 2 37 Stafford Borough Council 1996: 6 38 Staffordshire HER: PRN 04156 39 Thames Valley Archaeological Service 2008: 14 40 Ibid: 13 41 Staffordshire HER: PRN 04003 42 Cane et al 1984: 51

24 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

2.3 Early Medieval Part 1(AD 410 to AD 913)

Map 4: Early Medieval Stafford: HCTs and HER data

2.3.1 Placename

The meaning of the placename Stafford is not as straightforward as it appears. It is generally interpreted as meaning the ‘landing-place or ford’. The first element Staff- comes from the Old English staeth, which meant river- bank or shore although Gelling suggested that as applied to Stafford a landing-place may make more sense, suggesting some river traffic along the river at an early date43.

Despite -ford appearing to be a straightforward interpretation it has been suggested that in Old English ford may also refer to causeways44. The placename may, therefore, refer to the known causeway leading east away from the town (now the Lammascote Road). It has already been speculated above that this route may have prehistoric origins, although this has not been proven archaeologically (cf. 2.1). In support of this interpretation Horovitz argues that it is unlikely that the River Sow has ever been navigable and consequently the suggestion that the prefix refers to a landing-place at Stafford is unlikely45, although it is still possible that the River Sow was navigable prior to the medieval period. Other places with this element may refer to settlements in

43 Gelling 1984: 8 44 Ibid: 38-39 45 Horovitz 2005: 40

25 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment marshes accessible by ‘log boat’ at certain times of the year46. Marshes were present to the east of the town centre as environmental and archaeological evidence has proven. Consequently the name Stafford may mean ‘the causeway bordered by water or very wet ground’ or if the pre-fix was stoef then the ‘ford (or causeway through wet ground) marked by stakes or posts’47.

This interpretation, with an early route running east out of the area of the modern town being the origin of the place-name raises questions regarding the alignment of the supposed Roman road along Gaolgate Street. The latter runs north-south through the town with its destination to the south postulated as being Pennocrucium48. Such a route would necessitate a ford across the River Sow on the southern side of the town and is therefore another contender for the origins of the place-name.

It was speculated above (2.2) that Stafford may have been the meeting point of a north-south and an east-west route from an early date (cf. 2.5.7 for discussion on the western route out of the town).

2.3.2 Economy

2.3.2.1 Agriculture

There have been two interpretations of the early medieval landscape resulting from the environmental samples taken from King’s Pool. The first suggested that the intensive farming which occurred from the Iron Age continued into the early medieval period49. However, another sample from King’s Pool and environmental samples taken from a site to the south of Lammascote Road have provided a different interpretation of the landscape around eastern Stafford during the late Roman and into the early medieval period. These have suggested that farming, notably arable agriculture, ceased and that there was some regeneration of woodland, a trend which was reversed later in the early medieval period50. The site south of Lammascote Road dates this decline of human activity to c.AD300-AD600, which coincides with the late Roman period and into the first century of the early medieval period; however, the return to arable farming was dated from c.AD500/800 to AD1100/120051. The archaeological evidence for human activity in the area during the Roman period was discussed above, however, many of the finds date between the 2nd to 4th centuries, suggesting activity continued into the 4th century at least. The evidence may therefore suggest a decline in arable agriculture in the final centuries of the Roman period, rather than occurring in the early edieval period. Overall, it appears that the evidence for arable agriculture during the

46 Ibid; Gelling 1985: 8 47 Horovitz 2005: 40 & 41 48 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00062 – the site of a Roman settlement south of Penkridge on Watling Street (the A5) near Water Eaton. 49 Bartley & Morgan 1990: 193 50 Worcestershire Archaeological Service 1999: 12 51 Ibid: 5-6; Greig 1999:7

26 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment sub-Roman period52 remains inconclusive, although it does not rule out the presence of a pastoral economy.

There is evidence from excavations within the town centre for cereal production, although how far the grain was travelling to get to this site is not known. At least four ovens or grain drying kilns were discovered in an archaeological excavation c.50m north of St. Mary’s Church. The ovens/kilns were dated to the early to mid 9th century53 and the remains of wheat, barley, rye and oats were found associated with them. The presence of oats may suggest that horses were being kept, although it is possible that the oats were also included in the human diet54. The excavation did not discover evidence of settlement in the vicinity of the kilns and it appears that this area was used exclusively for grain processing/baking55. The ovens/kilns pre-date the foundation of the burh56 in AD913 (2.4.1) and it has consequently been suggested that they were used by a possible high-status establishment or a community57 (2.3.3).

2.3.2.2 Pottery production

On the eastern side of the town, at Tipping Street, three pottery kilns were also excavated in the 1970s and 1980s.58. One kiln was discovered to the south of the street associated with waster59 pits. To the north of the street two pottery kilns were discovered, one closely associated with a waster pit, as well as several wells which were interpreted as providing water for the pottery making process. The two northern sites dated to the early-mid 9th century, pre-dating the burh as did the ovens/kilns mentioned under Agriculture60. The pottery, which has been recovered from several sites within Stafford, and possibly at other sites within Staffordshire and the West Midlands, is known as Stafford Ware; most identifiable examples have been jars and cooking pots with some bowls. It is mostly orange in colour61. Excavations c.150m to the south east at Clarke Street suggest that the pottery site was located towards the periphery of the habitable portion of the settlement62 (2.3.4). There was evidence for domestic activity on the site to the north of Tipping Street

52 What the above article calls the ‘possible Dark Age’ e.g. a period upto the early 7th century. 53 The interpretation of this dating evidence is being reviewed prior to the publication of Professor Carver’s publication on Stafford due in 2010 which suggests this represents activity during the period of the burh. 54 Moffet 1994: 56-57 & 63; NB The date of the kilns is also being reviewed; suggesting that they actually date to the period of the burh. 55 Crane et al 1984: 57 56 Burh: An Anglo-Saxon fortified town or other defended site, not necessarily urban. (Scope note reproduced from the Thesaurus of Monument Types by kind permission of English Heritage. © 2008 English Heritage). 57 Moffett 1984: 63 58 Cane et al 1984: 57-59; Staffordshire HER: PRN 03182 & PRN 01614 59 Waster: An object which has been rejected eg due to being misshapen, spoilt etc. (Scope note reproduced from the Thesaurus of Monument Types by kind permission of English Heritage. © 2008 English Heritage). 60 these dates are also under review again suggesting that this activity relates to the period of the burh 61 Ford 1995: 29-31 62 Carver 1975: 55-56

27 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment however, it is not clear whether this was associated with the kilns or whether it pre-dates them63.

2.3.2.3 Tanning

A possible tanning pit64 was identified in an excavation on the far eastern side of the historic core, along North Walls. Stratigraphically it appeared to relate to activity which the excavators’ stated pre-dated the late Saxon period (c.900-1065). However, this does not make it clear whether this industrial activity pre-dated the founding the burh in AD913.

2.3.3 Religion

Stafford is associated with the legend of St. Bertelin who is said to have established a hermitage on an island here during the seventh century. The first reference to St Bertelin of Stafford is in c.1175 and it is believed that the legend brings together several stories concerning one or more saints and/or other holy men with similar sounding names65. Although it is not known whether St. Bertelin ever actually settled at Stafford it is possible that the area was associated with a holy man. A hermitage or small religious community in the area could have been established following the conversion of the kingdom of Mercia in the 7th century66. Indeed hermits throughout Christendom often chose isolated spots such as islands, deserts, headlands and marshland in which to set up hermitages. These holy men often attracted followers and small religious communities did develop around these hermitage sites during the early medieval period.

The later church of St. Bertelin, which was attached to St. Mary’s Church, was excavated in the 1950s. A wooden cross was discovered which lay beneath a coin minted between AD991 and AD997 suggesting that the cross had been buried c.AD100067. Oswald interpreted the cross as having originally been a standing cross which was probably burnt and buried within a wooden post- built church erected around the same time. The post holes for this church lay on a similar alignment to the cross68. However, the wood from the cross and associated charcoal produced very different dates; the cross dated to c.AD1180, whilst the charcoal produced two similar dates of c. AD845 and AD830. This has led to a re-interpretation of the evidence which has suggested that the cross represents a 12th century burial within the chancel of the later stone-built church69 (cf. 2.5.6). However, the possibility that the 12th century date came from a contaminated sample has not been entirely ruled out70.

63 Cane et al 1984: 57 64 Staffordshire HER: PRN 51567 65 Farr & Horne 1958: 6-9; Greenslade et al 1979: 186 66 Greenslade 1974: 135 67 Oswald 1955:15-18 68 Ibid: and Plate 5 69 Walker 1976: 17-19 70 Ibid: 17; Shotton & Williams 1971: 153

28 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

The evidence that this represented an early religious site may be supported by the fact that one of the post holes from the wooden church had cut an earlier burial. Although the burial itself was not closely dated the post hole had contained a brooch known to have been produced between the 7th/8th century and 10th century. Even if the earliest church dated to the period of the burh (post AD913 cf. 2.4.4) burials were being carried out in this area prior to its foundation. It is not known how this site may relate to the area of the early to mid 9th century ovens/kilns located c.75m to the north.

2.3.4 Settlement

The earliest historical references to a settlement at Stafford date to the early 10th century when Aethelflaed71, Lady of the Mercians, began a programme of building burhs in defence of the kingdom of Mercia against Danish incursions. Burhs were constructed at both Stafford and Tamworth in AD913. It is not clear whether there had been a pre-existing settlement at Stafford or whether this was a ‘new town’72. However, several archaeological interventions around the town have suggested that there was a human presence in the period before AD91373.

The limits of the pre-Roman marshland were identified at the Clarke Street site and there appeared to be evidence of two episodes of land reclamation, one probably Roman in date, after which it returned to waterlogged conditions with the second reclamation event then occurring at some point prior to the 12th century74. This may suggest a period of abandonment in this area of the town during the Early Medieval period.

Overall there is evidence that human activity was concentrated within the loop of the River Sow upon which Athelflaed’s burh was later founded. It has been suggested that the grain processing/baking site at St Mary’s Grove served a community and it is possible that this community may have been religious in nature. Although the idea of St. Bertelin founding a hermitage in this area is regarded as a legend it is possible that this may have been the site of a hermitage perhaps founded by an important eremitic holy man. The community may have survived as an oral tradition into the 12th century when St. Bertelin was first documented as being associated with Stafford. Alternatively it has been postulated that the site was an 8th or 9th century royal manor75 thus suggesting that the burh was founded upon a pre-existing royal site. This would not be unusually practice at this period as Tamworth, also established as a burh in AD913, demonstrates.

71 The daughter of King Alfred and sister of King Edward the Elder 72 Walker 1976: 14 73 All of the evidence for pre-burh settlement is under review and there is the suggestion that it may all relate to the period of the burh. 74 Carver 1975: 55-56 75 Ford 1995: 31

29 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

2.3.5 Communications

Both a north-south route and an east-west route have already been postulated as having early origins, possibly of Iron Age or Roman date (cf. 2.1 and 2.2).

The national distribution of Stafford ware pottery is not precisely known to date as it has not been closely studied. Stafford ware type pottery has been recovered from excavations at Chester, Hereford, Worcester, Gloucester and even Dublin76. Similar pottery has also been found within Staffordshire particularly at sites to the east, including Sandon and Rocester, but also at Lichfield and Tamworth77. Should it be proven that the pottery at these sites had their provenance at Stafford then it would be possible to speculate some of the route ways and trading links within which Stafford was located.

2.4 Early Medieval Part 2 (913AD to 1065AD)

2.4.1 Burh

In the late 9th century the Danish/Viking army arrived in the Kingdom of Mercia, of which Tamworth and Repton, Derbyshire were the principal seats. The king was dethroned and the Danes gained control of the region. However, the king of Wessex, Edward the Elder was determined to halt the advance of the Danish army and defeated them in the battle of Tettenhall in AD91078. This victory effectively made Staffordshire a border between the English kingdoms led by Wessex and those lands controlled by the Danish army. The burhs created at Tamworth and Stafford in AD913 by Aethelflaed79 formed part of the defence against the Danish incursion with the aim of pushing them eastwards.

The extent of the burh is not known but it has been speculated that it was smaller than the later town and may have been fossilised within its layout, possibly only encompassing the area to the west of Gaolgate/Greengate Street around the later St Mary’s Church (map 5) 80. An alternative interpretation is also shown on map 5. An archaeological excavation carried out on the northern side of South Walls revealed a large ditch which lies on the same alignment as this street and which may represent part of the burh defences. The ditch appears to have been infilled in the medieval period81 (cf. 2.5.1) although its full depth could not be investigated. A road surface discovered during an archaeological excavation and aligned east-west was interpreted as possibly the line of the military inner road which would have followed the burh defences. The road surface lay c.20m to the south of the later medieval defences82. These two excavations appear to confirm that the

76 Ibid 77 Ibid 78 Curtler 1908: 219 79 Lady of the Mercians and sister to Edward the Elder 80 Walker 1976: 19; Cane et al 1984: 51 81 Staffordshire HER: PRN 05519 82 Staffordshire HER: PRN 52497

30 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment burh covered a smaller area than the later town defences, but that the latter closely followed the alignment of the burh defences.

Map 5: Two interpretations of the extent of the Burh defences

A reference in Domesday Book (1086), although post-conquest in date, suggests that by the later 11th century the town was surrounded by a wall. It is possible that this wall was already in place prior to the Norman Conquest (1066) and relates to the burh (for an alternative history cf. 2.5.1).

2.4.2 Settlement

Four ditches were excavated at Broadeye which dated to the 10th/11th centuries (cf. map 4 and HUCA 3)83. There was some similarity with the ditch surrounding the burh at Tamworth, which was also founded in AD91384. However, their alignment suggests that they surrounded a focal point which lay in the area of the current roundabout at Broadeye. This appears to have been a fortified site which probably lay outside the area of the burh (cf. map 4 and map 5)85. It was upon this site that a castle was located in 1070 (cf.2.5.2.1).

83 Staffordshire HER: PRN 52876 84 Cuttler et al 2009:74 85 Ibid: 76-79

31 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

Evidence for a 10th/11th century building has been discovered at the northern end of Gaolgate Street. Elsewhere domestic activity has only been identified through secondary features such as the large pit found at South Walls, which contained pottery as well as charcoal possibly representing the debris from domestic fires86. Other pits, which may represent evidence for either domestic or industrial activity, have been excavated to the south of St Mary’s Church87 and to the north of the historic town just south of Bull Hill88.

The site at South Walls had formed part of the marsh and the evidence suggests that this was reclaimed during the Early Medieval period. This site, therefore, lay on the periphery of settlement and possibly beyond the burh defences (cf. map 4 and map 5)89. Nearby a small jar containing a coin hoard was discovered in 1800. The coin hoard was considered to contain coins dating to the late 10th and early 11th century90, which may confirm this area as lying beyond the limits of the burh.

By the time Domesday Book was compiled in 1086 Stafford was a large settlement with over 100 houses and was the principal town of the county91. The county itself was probably created in the 10th century92. It is likely that the main north-south route, Gaolgate and Greengate streets, formed part of the settlement by the 11th century93. All of the major landholders within Staffordshire have property within the town confirming its pre-eminence in the hierarchy of 11th century settlements within the county94.

Within the EUS project area there were four other places mentioned in Domesday Book: Coton and Tillington to the north of the town, Rickerscote and Silkmore to the south. The former three places were all recorded individually with villagers and small holders suggesting settlement. Silkmore formed part of the large manor of Bradley located 6.7km south west of the town. The manor had 10 outlying parts where there were 48 villagers and 26 small-holders; however, it is not known how many of these people may have been living in the area of Silkmore95. Rickerscote is also described as ‘lying within the lands of Bradley’ and both were held by the Earl of Stafford96.

86 Birmingham Archaeology 2006: 19 87 Staffordshire HER: PRN 03186 88 Ibid: PRN 51593 89 Birmingham Archaeology 2006: 8 90 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00788 91 Greenslade et al 1982: 186; Dyer 2002: 4 92 Greenslade et al 1982: 186 93 Dyer 2002: 4 94 Hawkins & Rumble 1976: B 95 Ibid: Tillington 11:1; Rickerscote 11:67; Coton (Cote) 8:14; Silkmore 11:6 96 Ibid: 11: 67

32 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

2.4.3 Economic

2.4.3.1 Agriculture

An excavation at North Walls identified the presence of cereal crops particularly rye with some bread wheat97. The environmental evidence from Lammascote Road supports this indicating that cereals, particularly rye, were being grown prior to the 12th century. The evidence also suggests that meadowland was present in the area98. The form of arable agriculture for this period is unknown, but open fields are generally held to have their origins from around the mid 10th century99.

Tillington, Rickerscote and Coton were all recorded in Domesday with arable lands and some meadow. Bradley manor was recorded as having a large amount of arable land, but also 15 acres of meadow100. It is probable that some of this meadow land lay at Silkmore, the name of which means ‘drain to the moor’101. The early date for this name may imply some form of early drainage perhaps to create a manageable meadow.

2.4.3.2 Hemp & flax

Recent investigations at North Walls and the King’s Pool found evidence for hemp and flax. It was suggested that flax may have been processed in the area of North Walls taking advantage of slow flowing or still waters crucial to this form of medieval industry102.

2.4.3.3 Pottery

Although the pottery kilns at Tipping Street appear to have gone out of use by the end of the 9th century103 a further kiln was excavated to the north in Salter Street. This kiln was dated to between AD1000 and 1080, which may suggest that the industry moved northwards. As detailed analysis of Stafford ware has yet to be undertaken it is not possible to speculate upon the lifespan of the production of this pottery104.

2.4.3.4 Mint

A mint was established at Stafford in the reign of Athelstan (AD924-39)105, which continued into the late 12th century106. A coin hoard of 11th century coins struck at the Stafford mint was discovered at Oulton, north of Stone107.

97 Birmingham Archaeology: 2006: 14. The report refers this as the ’Late Saxon’ period 98 Greig 1999: 7 99 Oosthuizen 2005: 166 100 Hawkins & Rumble 1976: Tillington 11:1; Rickerscote 11:67; Coton (Cote) 8:14; Silkmore 11:6 101 Horovitz 2005: 495 102 Birmingham Archaeology 2006: 15; Bartley & Morgan 1990: 193 103 Dependant upon the radiocarbon date as being accepted as correct. 104 Ford 1995: 29 105 The son of Edward the Elder and nephew to Athelflaed Lady of the Mercians. 106 Walker 1976: 20

33 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

2.4.4 Religious

The excavations carried out on St Bertelin’s Chapel in the 1950s concluded that the phase 1 wooden church probably dated to the earliest period of the burh108. The wooden church was replaced by a stone structure which the excavators thought was most likely constructed in the early 11th century109.

By Domesday Book (1086) the religious foundation was a collegiate church110 with thirteen canons who held land within the town in their own right and as prebendary111 canons for the King112. It is to be presumed that the collegiate church at this time was St Bertelin’s, although it is possible that there was a church on the site of the later St Mary’s (cf. 2.5.6.2).

Domesday Book also refers to the priests of the borough who held 14 properties in the town113. It is not known to which church the priests belonged; if there was a pre-cursor to St Mary’s as a collegiate church then at least some of these priests may belong to St Bertelin’s. Alternatively it has been suggested that St Chad’s Church, which lies on the eastern side of Greengate Street, may have been founded by the Bishop of Lichfield by 1086 and that the priests may therefore have belonged to this church114.

2.5 Medieval (1066 to 1499)

2.5.1 Town walls

By the time of Domesday Book Stafford had become established as the principal town of the county and was already surrounded by a wall as the following entry for the town makes clear:

‘The earl (Roger) himself has 31 messuages within the walls...’

It was speculated previously that the walled town may relate to the wall which had been constructed as part of the burh defences in the 10th century. Alternatively the town wall may have been re-built following the Norman Conquest as an attempt to consolidate the king’s hold upon the surrounding landscape. It is known that a castle was built in 1070 following an uprising in 1069115 and it is possible that the town walls referred to in Domesday Book may be contemporary with the building of the castle.

107 Staffordshire HER: PRN 0832 108 Oswald 1955: 17-18 109 Ibid: 19-20 110 Collegiate Church: A church attached to or founded by a college. (Scope note reproduced from the Thesaurus of Monument Types by kind permission of English Heritage. © 2008 English Heritage). 111 Oxford Dictionary of English Revised Second edition 2005: Prebend: the portion of the revenues of a cathedral or collegiate church granted to a canon. (Therefore Stafford had 13 prebends in 1086). 112 Greenslade et al 1982: 239 113 Hawkins & Rumble 1976: B:10 114 Greenslade et al 1979: 245 115 Greenslade et al 1979: 200

34 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

In the 13th century the king granted money to pay for town walls at Stafford and it could be at this point that the town extended its boundaries to the known medieval extent116.

Map 6: Medieval Stafford

116 Staffordshire HER: PRN 0077

35 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

There were three town gates, to the north, east and south by the 14th/15th century (cf. map 7). The earliest references to the north and east gates occur prior to the 13th century which may imply that the earlier burh extended further north and east than previously thought or they relate to the postulated rebuilding in the mid-late 11th century. A fourth gate may have existed to the west as it is depicted upon John Speed’s map of the town (1610), although it would have been destroyed by the 1620s.117 An anonymous map of c.1600 shows that the northern, eastern and southern gates were built of stone, however, it does not show a gate to the west where only wooden palisades and a wooden bridge are depicted. It may be that a gate had never existed to the west because this area had been dominated by the castle (cf. 2.5.2.1)118. In 1969, whilst laying a sewer, two walls were observed about 2.4m thick and about 2.1m apart. They were found in Foregate Street, near Gaol Square and were suggested to be the foundations of the North Gate119.

The extent of the medieval limits can still be traced within the town through the names North Walls and South Walls. The anonymous map dated c.1600 shows the town defences as a wall only to the north, south and to the south west, whilst the remainder of the circuit appears to be comprised of wooden palisades, notably on the western side of the town and for a short section to the north east.

It is not known to what extent the defences were walled with stone in the medieval period and it is possible that the wooden palisades to the north east represents repair work to a section of wall that had decayed between the 13th century and c.1600. However, the section to the west may only ever have had a wooden palisade as it was protected by the river, although archaeological and documentary evidence suggests that this was the site of the royal castle until at least the 14th century120. Consequently, the town wall in this area may also have formed part of the castle and when this declined the wall was not rebuilt121.

The c.1600 map also depicts a ditch on the far side of the walls only on the eastern and southern sides. It is called Town Ditch between the North Gate and the East Gate and Thieves Ditch between East Gate and South Gate. An archaeological excavation carried out on the northern side of South Walls in 1999 discovered a large ditch which had been infilled between 12th and 15th century. It was interpreted as the town ditch which pre-dated the town wall, however, the ditch appears to be too far north to represent the limits of the medieval town and may relate to a ditch enclosing the burh122 (cf. 2.4.1).

117 Greenslade et al 1979: 200 118 Cuttler et al 2009: 48 & 79 119 Walker 1976: 26 120 Cuttler et al 2009: 48, 74 & 79 121 Ibid: 43 122 Staffordshire HER: PRN 05519

36 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

2.5.2 Castle

It appears that until at least the 14th century there were two castles associated with Stafford. One was a royal castle located within the town and the other a baronial castle located c. 2km to the south west of the town centre (cf. map 6 and 7).

2.5.2.1 Town Castle (Royal)

Two possible locations have been put forward as the site of the royal castle built in 1070. One suggestion is that it had been built on the western side of the town at Broadeye where a mound once stood which was known as Castle Hill123. Furthermore there is a reference in c.1200 to the castle by the river, which fits the Broadeye site more closely than any other location124. Furthermore the location of the castle at Broadeye, which may have been built upon the site of an Early Medieval fortified site, could have been sited to protect a pre-existing western route into the town. The castle at Tamworth similarly lies adjacent to the river crossing125.

An alternative location has been speculated at Bull Hill, which is the highest point of the town. It has been suggested that the name Bull refers to the bailey and the name Mount Street may recall the site of a motte126. However, the name Bull Hill is first mentioned in the 16th century when it refers to a messuage and other commentators no longer believe it refers to a castle bailey127.

The castle, however, did not have a long life as by the time of Domesday Book it is described as having been “destroyed”128. In the 12th century there is a reference to a castle at Stafford and it has been suggested that this refers to the rebuilding of this castle129. Excavations at Broadeye discovered a large ditch, along the same alignment as the 10th to 11th century ditches (cf. 2.4.1)130, which appears to enclose an area to the north west up towards the existing Broadeye bridge (cf. map 7 and HUCA 3). The ditch may have formed part of the outer bailey of the 11th and 12th century castle. Pottery recovered from the ditch during the excavation dating from the late 11th to 13th century suggests the site was of high status, perhaps confirming this as the site of the royal castle131.

One of the many functions of medieval town castles was to act as a gaol. The first mention of a gaol at Stafford occurs in 1185 and a deed of c.1200 refers

123 Greenslade et al 1979: 200 & Staffordshire HER: PRN 00766 124 Carver nd.: 3. Castle 125 Cuttler et al 2009: 74-81 126 Walker 1976: 31-2 127 Carver nd.: 3. The Castle; Messuage: A dwelling-house with outbuildings and land assigned to its use. (Scope note reproduced from the Thesaurus of Monument Types by kind permission of English Heritage. © 2008 English Heritage). 128 Hawkins & Rumble 1976: 10:9 129 Greenslade et al 1979: 200 130 Cuttler et al 2009:51-3 & fig. 6 131 Ibid: 79 & 53

37 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment to repairs to the gaol and the castle, which may imply that the gaol was located there at this date132. There is both documentary and archaeological evidence, in the form of a pottery assemblage, which suggests that during the 13th century there was a change of emphasis for the castle when its use may have become restricted to that of a gaol. The late 13th century pottery assemblage changes, the high status wares disappearing, suggesting the site had lost status133.

However, a new prison was built apparently near Crabbery Street by the 14th century, probably between 1391 and 1394. This evidence suggests that the castle had ceased to function entirely by this date and indeed may have already been in serious decline by the late 13th century134. In the early 14th century the suggested outer bailey ditch was backfilled probably to facilitate urban growth within the area of Broadeye135.

2.5.2.2 Stafford Castle (Baronnial)

The surviving Stafford Castle was built by Robert of Stafford in the parish of Castle Church on the A518 probably in the late 11th century (HUCA 18)136. This was located at the centre of his estate, in a dominant location, rather than in the county town, which owed loyalty to the king as well as to other barons137. The motte at Stafford Castle was similar in form to other Norman mottes suggesting it was constructed in the 11th century and that the first castle was probably built of timber138. The castle was associated with a small settlement which was recorded in Domesday Book as Monetville, and it is likely that the two are contemporary139 (cf. 2.5.3).

A stone keep appears to have been built probably in the late 12th century, but from that period the family’s fortunes declined and it is not known if the keep was ever completed140.

Over the course of two decades from 1348 a second stone keep was built by the first Earl of Stafford and this probably represents an upturn in the family’s fortunes which was to continue into the 15th century141. The castle was the family’s main residence during the medieval period, but from the 1440s the family began to stay here less frequently probably because it was not large enough to house all of their staff and retainers142.

132 Ibid 47 133 Ibid: 48 & 53 134 Ibid: 48 135 Ibid: 80 136 Darlington & Soden 2007: 194-6 137 Ibid: 190 138 Ibid:194-5 139 Ibid: 193-4 140 Ibid: 192 & 197 141 Darlington & Soden 2007: 207 142 Ibid: 214

38 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

Three deer parks were associated with the castle, Great Park, Little Park and Hyde Park. It is not certain at what date the parks were established, but they were all present by the 15th century143. The deer parks appear to have covered a large area; the eastern boundary of the Great Park was the Sow, abutting the western edge of the town; to the north east the boundary appears to have been the road from Stafford to Doxey; whilst Little Park may have lain to the west of the castle towards Derrington. However, the southern extent is less well defined, but Hyde Park is likely to have been located in the area of Hyde Lea.144 However, ridge and furrow earthworks, evidence of ploughing during the medieval period, have been identified on aerial photographs and during field investigations in the early 1990s across large areas of the field system north of the castle. It is possible that this area was being ploughed during the 150 years that the castle declined in importance, between the late 12th century and the mid 14th century and could, therefore, pre-date the establishment of the deer parks. Alternatively parts of the deer parks may have been cultivated periodically during their lifetime and potentially into the early 18th century when the deer parks were dis-emparked.

Throughout the medieval period the castle dominated the landscape within its extensive parkland, over which the inhabitants would have had impressive views. It is possible that following the decline of the royal castle at Broadeye the western route out of the town had became a private route to the baronial Stafford Castle. A map of 1681 appears to suggest that the bridge at Broadeye led into a parkland landscape and possibly depicts an avenue (cf. 2.6.2).

A moated site145 lying c.900m to the south west of the castle, was probably located within Little Park. It has not been excavated so its relationship to the castle is not fully understood, but it may represent a hunting lodge or have formed part of a designed landscape in the medieval period, perhaps as a place from which to view the castle and its setting. Interestingly it lies at the lowest point almost half way between the two high points in the landscape; the castle and the hillfort at Berry Ring.

2.5.3 Settlement

By the late 11th century there were between 128 and 146 houses in the town and of these 51 or 52 were described as being waste, perhaps implying that Stafford had been slighted following the rebellion in 1069146. However, the use of the term ‘waste’ may be more complex than it first appears. The historian, Robin Studd, has suggested that the references to ‘waste’ in Stafford borough may in fact suggest that these particular properties were exempt from paying tax rather than that they had been destroyed or demolished147.

143 Youngs & Morgan 2001: 45 144 Darlington 2001: 155-6 145 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00798 146 Greenslade et al 1979: 186; Walker 1976: 23 147 Studd 2000: 131-132

39 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

Map 7: Medieval town

The north-south route through the town, which dates to the period of the burh if not earlier, was referred to as the High Street by the late 13th century148. There has been little archaeological work carried out to establish the extent to which the surviving street pattern may relate to that which would have existed within the burh, as has proven to be the case in Winchester. Several of the surviving streets have been speculated as demarcating the extent of the burh

148 Greenslade et al 1979: 187

40 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment including Mill Street and Earl Street to the west, Tipping Street to the south, Eastgate Street and Salter Street to the east and Stafford Street to the north (cf. map 5)149. If this does prove to be the limits of the burh then these streets may be taken to be later in date and the streets internal to this limit may have their origins in the 10th century. Overall the street pattern suggests an organic development with very little evidence of medieval town planning.

Town planning is evident across parts of the town in the form of the burgage plots which are visible on historic maps. The burgages are still apparent within the streetscape along the northern side of Eastgate Street, Mill Street and much of Greengate and Gaolgate Streets. However, a detailed assessment of the burgage plots within the town and their development has not been carried out for Stafford.

The western side of the town in the medieval period was dominated by the ecclesiastical buildings associated with the collegiate church of St Mary, as well as St Bertelin’s church and the site of the medieval castle at Broadeye (cf. map 7; HUCA 2 and HUCA 3) 150. A property post dating the 11th/12th century and associated with a grain processing site and possible medieval tithe barn was excavated to the north of St Mary’s Church and may have formed part of the ecclesiastical complex151. The commercial side of town, where the site of the market and fairs were located, lay to the east of the main north-south axis (cf. map 7). There is no obvious east-west axis through the town; all of the streets connecting Eastgate Street to Gaolgate and Greengate streets terminate at that junction and do not align with the streets on the western side of the north-south axis. This may be due to the fact that the western exit from the town was dominated by the site of the castle, which appears to have ceased as an administrative focal point by the mid 13th century and its physical presence appears to have been removed by at least the early 17th century152 (cf. map 7 and HUCA 3). Archaeological evidence suggests that the area of the castle was beginning to be redeveloped by the late 14th century with pits suggesting low-level industrial activity153. The origins of the street pattern in this corner of Stafford are not known, other than that Broad Street and Queen Street were present by the early 17th century154.

There is archaeological evidence for medieval structures on various sites around the town including along Eastgate Street and Tipping Street, where timber framed buildings were excavated dating from the 12th/13th century155. Industrial activity to the rear of properties on Tipping Street was identified in the form of pits and a small forge-like feature of circa 1170 (cf. 2.5.5.6)156. The properties along Eastgate Street, in the area of the present Clark Street, were lost in a fire in the early 13th century and according to the excavators the

149 Walker 1976: 19 150 Ibid: 40 151 Crane et al 1983: 61 152 No castle structures are indicated on either the anonymous map of c.1600 or on Speed’s map of 1610. 153 Cuttler et al 2009: 81 154 Greenslade et al 1979: 189 155 Staffordshire HER: PRN 03192; Carver 1975: 63 156 Cane et al 1984: 63

41 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment area was given over to “agriculture”157. However, given the location of the site within the town walls it is probable that these soils in fact represented garden cultivation or market gardening. The fact that the properties were not rebuilt may imply a period of population decline, although this would go against the general theory that the 13th century was a period of population growth. It is not known why rebuilding did not occur, but it effectively left this area peripheral to the town.

To the west of St Mary’s Church a building was excavated fronting onto Earl Street, which revealed evidence of later rebuilding. Pottery evidence dated activity on this site to between the 12th to 15th centuries158. At Bath Street a 13th century timber building was excavated in 1981 which may have been associated with the college estate; the building appears to have been demolished possibly by the late 14th century. The site was not reoccupied until the early 19th century159.

To the north in Broad Street a hearth was excavated, which by its form, was believed to have been of medieval date160. This may suggest domestic activity in the northern part of the town.

Four 15th century buildings survive along the main north-south route through the town. These are largely encased within later buildings; 34 Gaolgate Street is largely a mid 18th century building which contains earlier timber framing, whilst 10 Market Square was extensively altered during the 19th century, but contains a timber framed building of c.1475161. The only known 15th century building away from this main route is the small timber framed property at 10 Church Street162 (plate 1). However, many other timber framed properties existed within the town until the 19th and 20th centuries some of which may have been late medieval in origin. Furthermore it is possible that other late timber framed properties may survive within properties of 18th and 19th century appearance.

157 Carver 1975: 63 158 Staffordshire HER: PRN 01600 159 Carver nd.: ST34 160 Staffordshire HER: PRN 03184 161 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08254 and 08307 162 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08212

42 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

Plate 1: 10 Church Street, Stafford

2.5.3.1 Suburban expansion

The lack of pressure for internal growth within the town walls is not necessarily an indication of economic decline instead it may be associated with suburban growth along the roads leading out of the town to the north and south. Medieval suburbs appear to have 11th/12th century origins in other towns within the country and are typically to be found upon the main roads outside the town gates163. This seems to be equally true of Stafford where the northern suburb, Foregate, had begun to develop by the late 12th century (map 7; HUCA 7 and HUCA 12)164. Foregate belonged to the manor of Marston, although by the early 13th century it shared in the privileges of the borough and burgage plots are likely to have been laid out along the road165.

Archaeological excavation within the southern suburb of Forebridge has identified settlement activity dating from the 12th to 15th century166 (map 7 and HUCA 25). Forebridge lay within Castle Church parish and formed part of the Stafford family’s estate, whose seat was Stafford Castle. The settlement appears to have developed around a green and was first mentioned in 1304.

163 Aston & Bond 1976: 108 164 Greenslade et al 1979: 191 165 Ibid: 222 166 Staffordshire HER: PRN 50678; BUFAU 2002

43 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

The majority of the residents of Castle Church parish were recorded as living in Forebridge in 1403167.

The green at Forebridge is clearly shown on maps of Stafford dating to the 17th and 18th centuries (cf. map 7)168. A widening of the road is also visible in the northern suburb of Foregate. These areas were deliberately wide in order for carts to wait to pay their tolls before entering the town169.

Suburbs during the medieval period were areas where development was not restricted by the need to conform to burgage layouts, the size of which were set to a national standard170. The burgage plots conveyed trading privileges which would not have applied to the inhabitants who settled in the suburbs; however, in theory there was no limit to the extent of property holdings within the suburbs. The lack of restriction is probably one reason why four religious foundations were to be found within the medieval suburbs, with one in Foregate and three in Forebridge (cf. map 7; 2.5.6.5 and 2.5.6.6).

Burgage restrictions are likely to have applied in the suburb of Foregate from the early 13th century onwards when it shared in the borough’s privileges. The 17th and 18th century maps suggest that development in Foregate was reasonably orderly along the main route out of the town. However, the maps show that in Forebridge buildings had begun to encroach upon The Green by at least the late medieval period suggesting there were no burghal restrictions in the southern suburb. Furthermore it may also suggest that there had been a period of expansion concentrated upon Forebridge.

2.5.3.2 Other settlement within the bounds of the modern town

Monetville, the settlement located below Stafford Castle, had been founded by the time of Domesday Book (1086) (cf. 2.5.2.2). Archaeological excavations at Stafford Castle between 1978 and 1998 failed to identify any evidence for Early Medieval activity in this area and it is likely that both the castle and the settlement were probably founded c.1070 following the rebellion in 1069. It has been suggested that it was settled by people of Norman origin, Stafford being too dangerous for them at this time171. The settlement survives as earthworks, forms part of the Stafford Castle Scheduled Monument (HCT ‘Other Settlement’ within HUCA 18 and HUCA 24 on map 6).

The settlements identified in Domesday Book (cf. 2.4.1) are all recorded in later medieval documents suggesting some level of occupation. Tillington, to the north, is believed to have been deserted at some point between 1334 and 1524172. Map 6 shows the medieval landscape associated with the small settlement of Rickerscote (lying on the eastern edge of HUCA 28). In an early 14th century tax record Rickerscote is recorded with Burton, which lies just

167 Midgley & Donaldson 1959: 83 168 An anonymous copy of c.1600 & Speed’s map of 1610 (Greenslade et al 1979: 188) 169 Slater 2007: 28 170 Ibid:29 171 Darlington & Soden 2007: 194-5 172 Staffordshire HER: PRN 02580

44 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment beyond the southern EUS boundary173. By the late 17th century 45 properties are recorded for the two settlements174. Rowley, which also lies within the EUS project area (HUCA 23), was recorded as a separate vill with a manor house or capital messuage by the mid 15th century175.

2.5.4 Administration and Education

2.5.4.1 Administration

Stafford is recorded as the principal county town in Domesday Book and is the first entry. In 1206 King John granted the town a charter confirming it as a free borough. The charter confirmed all their existing privileges as well as conferring all those enjoyed by other free boroughs within the country excepting London. The townspeople were also exempt from paying any tolls within the country outside of London and they could only be tried by the courts of the town176.

However, Stafford does not appear to have had the monopoly on all of the functions expected of a county town during the medieval period. The justices of the Eyre177 for instance met at Lichfield, whilst it was not until the early 15th century that the justices of the peace regularly met at Stafford, previously they had also met at Penkridge and Wolverhampton. The county court was held within the town and was first recorded in 1178, by the 1280s it met in a hall178. Documentary records refer to a gaol from the 1180s, which has been associated with the royal castle (cf. 2.5.2.1) and gaol deliveries are recorded from the 1230s179. It is possible that the North Gate was being used to house prisoners from as early as the late 14th century180.

2.5.4.2 Education

There appears to have been a school associated with St Mary’s College by at least the late 14th century181. Thomas Counter, rector of Ingestre, established a chantry in St Mary’s (known as Counter’s chantry) circa 1500 whose priest was also to act as a schoolmaster182. The location of the medieval school is unknown, but it may have been sited within the churchyard as it was by the mid 16th century183.

173 Midgley and Donaldson 1959: 84 174 Ibid. 175 Ibid 176 Greenslade et al 1979: 222 177 Justice of the Eyre – a court which travelled around the country hearing legal cases during the medieval period 178 Greenslade et al 1979: 200 & 201 179 Cutler et al 2009: 43-44; Greenslade et al 1979: 203 180 Greenslade et al 1979: 227 181 Johnson 1979: 164 182 Ibid. 183 Ibid.

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2.5.5 Economy

2.5.5.1 Markets & fairs

A market is mentioned in late 12th century documents, but no specific charter is known184. The Market Square probably existed as the site of the market by the later 13th century, but the earliest market place appears to have been located elsewhere as there is a reference to an old market place in a document of this date185. It may have been located within St Mary’s churchyard or alternatively at the junction of Tipping Street and Eastgate Street (cf. map 7). Market Square may have been created by the demolition of buildings along the line of the main north-south route through the town. It is likely to have been larger than the area that survives with the southern block probably representing infill which had occurred prior to the early 17th century (cf. map 7).

There was a Booth hall, with a shambles, at the corner of the market place with Greengate Street by the 15th century186.

The earliest fair was granted in 1261 to take place in September. By the 17th century this had become a horse fair and was held in Eastgate Street at the junction with Tipping Street187. It is possible that this had been the site of the fair since the medieval period.

2.5.5.2 Agriculture

During the medieval period the inhabitants of Stafford held land for arable cultivation and pasturing following harvesting within the open field known as Foregate188. This large open field lay to the north of the town and belonged to Marston manor. They also held the right to pasture their animals on Marston field, which lay to the north of Foregate field, also within Marston manor (cf. map 6).

By the mid 15th century the inhabitants of the town were claiming the right to pasture their animals in three open fields belonging to the manor of Coton. They also held rights to pasture in lands at Lammascote farm to the east of the town and on Eastgate Common on the southern side of the Lammascote Road which lay within Forebridge manor189. The town does not appear to have had its own fields, but in 1455 a 99 year lease was agreed on Pool, later Coton, Field between the town and the lord of the manor of Coton (St

184 Greenslade et al 1979: 213; Palliser and Pinnock 1971: 51 and table II 185 Ibid: 213 186 Ibid: 213; Shambles: Traditionally a place where meat and fish were sold. (Scope note reproduced from the Thesaurus of Monument Types by kind permission of English Heritage. © 2009 English Heritage). 187 Ibid: 214 188 Open Field: An area of arable land with common rights after harvest or while fallow. Usually without internal divisions (hedges, walls or fences). (Scope note reproduced from the Thesaurus of Monument Types by kind permission of English Heritage. © 2009 English Heritage). 189 Greenslade et al 1970: 209-210

46 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

Thomas’ Priory which lay approximately 3km to the east of Stafford). The townspeople divided up the field into strips for arable and hay; animals could be turned out onto the field following harvest190.

Map 7 shows further medieval open fields, within the boundary of the EUS project, to the north and west of Rickerscote. These fields are likely to have been farmed by the inhabitants of Rickerscote, Rowley, Burton and possibly Silkmore (cf. 2.5.3.2). All of these settlements lay within the historic parish of Castle Church, which existed by at least the mid 16th century191.

Archaeological excavations carried out in Clarke Street on the eastern edge of the town suggested that domestic activity had ceased in this area following a fire in the 13th century after which the land appears to have been cultivated192.

2.5.5.3 Watermills

A watermill was associated with Stafford in Domesday Book where it is recorded as being held by the canons of Stafford193. It is unknown whether this mill was associated with either of the two known later mill sites.

Stafford Mill was constructed in timber during the second half of the 12th century to the south of the town on Mill Bank194. A mill is recorded here, as being newly built, in historic documents dating to 1164-65 when the burgesses of the town held it from the king195. Archaeological excavation established seven phases in the life of the mill with the first three dating between the 12th to 15th centuries. The mill had probably passed to the Stafford family by the end of the 12th century and they continued to own it until the late 19th century196.

By the late medieval/early post medieval period the mill may have been used for both grinding corn and for fulling cloth197.

The second mill was located to the east of the town to the south of Lammascote Road and was powered by the King’s Pool. Permission to build a mill associated with the pool was granted in the 1190s198. However, it was apparently suppressed by the Crown in the mid 13th century. Permission for its reconstruction was apparently granted in the mid 14th century199. It is probably this mill which survived until the late 16th century. The mill is shown on the map of Stafford dated to c.1600 where it is marked as being having been “decayed within memorie (sic)”.

190 Ibid: 209 191 Midgley and Donaldson 1959: 82 192 Staffordshire HER: PRN 03174 193 Hawkins & Rumble 1976: 6:1 194 Birmingham Archaeology 2003: 14; Staffordshire HER: PRN 00786 195 Ibid; Greenslade et al 1979: 211 196 Greenslade et al 1979: 211 197 Birmingham Archaeology 2003: 16 198 Ibid: 212 199 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00787

47 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

2.5.5.5 Fishery

The king had a fish pond north of the Lammascote Road, King’s Pool, by the late 12th century (cf. map 7)200. This large fish pond was created through the construction of a dam which probably survives in the line of the Lammascote Road201. An excavation in the 1970s at South Walls identified the line of the causeway or a road comprising sandstone rubble and cobbles202.

A further fishery, belonging to the earls of Stafford, existed in ponds at Broadeye by the later 13th century203.

Medieval records dating to the 15th century recorded the presence of at least one fisher working in this period204.

2.5.5.6 Industry

Medieval records indicate some of the occupations carried out by the inhabitants of the town; these include two goldsmiths recorded in the mid 15th century205.

In Stafford in the 15th century there were industries which related to leather working206, however medieval tanning has not been identified archaeologically despite tantalising evidence from earlier and later periods (cf. 2.4.1 and 2.6.5.4). Documentary sources record a cordwainer207 in the town in 1170 with tanners, shoemakers and Glovers all being recorded during the 1270s and 1280s. By 1476 shoemaking was clearly significant enough to warrant its own guild208.

The street name Tenterbanks was first recorded in the early 17th century209 although ‘le teynter on the walls’ is mentioned in 1468210. The name is taken from an area of land where either cloth or animal skins were laid out to dry. It is possible that tanning may have occurred in this area, between the River Sow and the town if Tenterbanks is taken to imply the presence of tanning. However, the name is probably most often associated with the cloth industry and the 15th century medieval records mention several trades such as weaver, draper and tailor211. It has been suggested that the mill on Mill Bank which was located adjacent to Tenterbanks may have partly been used as a

200 Greenslade et al 1979: 210 201 Stafford Borough Archaeology Section 1999b: 3 202 Staffordshire HER: PRN 03175 203 Greenslade et al 1979: 211 204 Dyer 2002: 19 205 Greenslade et al 1979: 215 206 Dyer 2002: 19 207 Cordwainer - shoemaker 208 Greenslade et al 1979: 216 209 Greenslade et al 1979: 189 210 Carver nd.: Medieval street names 211 Dyer 2002: 19

48 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment fulling mill212 in the late medieval/early post medieval period213 thus strengthening the area’s association with cloth making. In the late 13th century the Stafford burgesses were defending their rights to sell cloth at the market in Newcastle-under-Lyme. Furthermore many of the burgesses were recorded in 1341 as deriving their livings from wool which also suggests that cloth was being manufactured in the town on at least a small scale. By 1498 woollen caps were being made in the town which became an important industry by the 16th century214.

Further evidence for possible textile production has been identified from pollen evidence at three sites on the eastern side of the town. Flax appears to be the most common of the fibres being produced, although hemp is also present. The production of fibres from these plants requires them to be submersed in still water for long periods to separate the useful fibres from the wood. The waterlogged conditions on the eastern side of the town during the medieval period may explain why the industry seems to occur here. However, pollen samples have only been taken from archaeological investigations which lie adjacent to the site of the King’s Pool. There were high levels of pollen at North Walls where it was thought that flax was either being processed very close to a small pond, present by the Early Medieval period or within the pond itself215. The other two sites lay off the Lammascote Road, at Asda and at the new Stafford Leisure Centre. At the latter site flax production appears to date to the late medieval/early post medieval period216, whilst at the Supermarket site it was only tentatively dated to the medieval period217. Hemp also appears to have been processed at the Supermarket site.

Although Stafford appears to have been an important centre for pottery production in the early medieval period (cf. 2.4.3) this does not appear to have continued to any great degree into the medieval period. However, William the potter is recorded in 1275218.

A probable malting oven dating to the 13th/14th century was excavated on the northern edge of the medieval settlement to the west of Gaolgate Street219. Food and drink production was an important function within medieval towns and there are frequent references in medieval documents to the brewing of beer. Small scale metal working would also have been undertaken in medieval towns in order to meet demands for metal wares. It may be in this context that the possible small iron foundry discovered in Tipping Street operated in the late 12th century220. Although a pit nearby contained two axes,

212 Fulling Mill: A mill for beating and cleaning cloth, using soap or fullers earth. (Scope note reproduced from the Thesaurus of Monument Types by kind permission of English Heritage. © 2008 English Heritage). 213 Birmingham Archaeology 2003: 16 214 Greenslade et al 1979: 216 215 Birmingham Archaeology 2001: 16 216 Stoke-on-Trent Archaeology 2008: 5 217 Worcestershire Archaeological Service 1999: 6 218 Greenslade et al 1979: 216 219 Staffordshire HER; PRN 51597 220 Cane et al 1984: 63

49 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment shears and scissors221 it is not known whether it was closely associated with the forge. It is possible that the forge, if not engaged in making such metal tools may at least have been involved in their repair.

2.5.6 Religion

2.5.6.1 College of St Mary’s

St Mary’s church was first mentioned in the early 13th century and the nave and aisles of the building also date to this period222. However, it is clear that a collegiate church existed within Stafford before this date as evidenced by the 13 canons recorded in Domesday Book (1086). It is possible, therefore, that St Mary’s either replaced St Bertelin’s as the collegiate church or that an earlier building had stood on the site of the extant church223. However, an archaeological investigation carried out in 1979 at St Mary’s Place to the north of the church identified sand quarries dating to between 1150 and 1200224, which were interpreted as possibly providing sand for the construction of St Mary’s Church225. It has been suggested that the early 13th century church was dedicated to St Mary by King John who held the collegiate church as a free royal chapel226.

The archaeological investigations at St Mary’s Place also discovered a ditch which was interpreted as enclosing the precinct around the church. It was dated to c.1250227. Further excavations at Sir Noell’s Almshouses in Earl Street discovered the footings of a substantial wall aligned north-south which was interpreted as part of the precinct wall enclosing St Mary’s college. Large rubbish pits were also discovered containing finds of 13th and 14th century date, which were similar to others found just to the north of St Mary’s church and it has consequently been suggested that they were associated with activity within the college precincts228.

The collegiate church was supported by revenues from various lands and chapels which all lay within circa 6km of Stafford. By 1428, but probably from at least 1291, there were three principal prebends of Coton, Marston and Salt whilst within Whitgreave parish there were nine small prebends229. The revenues raised from the prebends supported the canons. By the mid 16th century the dean was supported by pensions raised from Coton, Marston and Salt as well as from the chapels of Creswell, Ingestre and Tixall. The dean and the three principal prebends also had to pay for the servants of the church; the four vicars choral, who sang the services, and the four priest vicars230.

221 Ibid 222 Evans 1970: 303; Staffordshire HER: PRN 08340 223 Ibid. 224 Carver nd; ST29 225 Cane et al 1983: 61 226 Evans 1970: 303 227 Carver nd: ST29 228 Carver nd: ST54 229 Evans 1970: 305 230 Ibid: 307

50 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

The house of the vicars’ choral is believed to have stood on the southern side of the churchyard by at least the mid 16th century and probably earlier231. The deanery is also believed to have stood within the churchyard, possibly on the western side (cf. HUCA 2)232. By the mid 15th century it included a hall and chapel233. A house for the priest vicars is also mentioned in the mid 16th century, but its location is not currently known234.

2.5.6.2 St Bertelin’s Church

Whatever the earlier history of St Mary’s church the adjacent church of St Bertelin’s was also retained and by the 15th century was probably being used as a guild chapel235. However, the legend of St Bertelin’s association with Stafford dates to the mid 12th century236 and this interest may reflect an attempt to establish Stafford, and perhaps St Bertelin’s chapel in particular, as a place of pilgrimage. Pilgrimage centres brought financial benefits not only to the church, but also to the wider town; particularly as the county’s main ecclesiastical centre was the Cathedral at Lichfield.

2.5.6.3 St Chad’s Church

St Chad’s is located on the east side of Greengate Street and the earliest surviving fabric dates to the 12th century237. It served a small parish contained within the medieval town including Tipping Street, the south side of Eastgate Street and South Walls. It has been suggested that it was founded by the bishop of Lichfield for his tenants who resided in the town. By the early 15th century the parish belonged to one of the prebends in Lichfield Cathedral238.

2.5.6.4 St Mary’s church, Castle Church

St Mary’s in Castle Church lies at the foot of Stafford Castle (cf. map 6). The earliest fabric within this church is the 15th century tower239. However, there is evidence to suggest that the church pre-dated the Norman Conquest as a chapel of the College of St Mary’s in the town240.

2.5.6.5 Religious Houses

The earliest religious house to be founded in Stafford was a Franciscan friary which was present by 1274. The friary was located in the suburb of Foregate

231 Ibid; Staffordshire HER: PRN 52862 232 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00771 233 Greenslade et al 1979: 206 234 Ibid 235 Ibid: 239 236 Farr & Horne 1958: 6-9; Greenslade et al 1979: 186 237 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00775 238 Greenslade 1979: 245 239 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08327 240 Youngs & Morgan 2001: 35

51 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment and by the 14th century was probably sited on the eastern side of the road heading north out of the town241 (cf. map 7).

A house of Austin Friars was founded within the southern suburb of Forebridge in 1344 by Lord Stafford242. During the development of the Friary Retail Park in 2004 three graves were discovered, which are likely to have been from the Austin Friars’ burial ground243. Further human remains found in the area during the 1970s, from Friars Road244, Friars Walk and from a similar area to the 2004 excavation have also been suggested as being associated with the Friary245. The Roman Catholic church of St Austin’s further south on the Wolverhampton Road was said to have been built upon land which had belonged to the Austin friary246 suggesting that their holdings were quite considerable within the Forebridge suburb and were probably concentrated upon the western side of what is now the Wolverhampton Road (cf. map 7 for possible extent). When the friary was dissolved in the mid 16th century the land included pasture and an orchard247.

2.5.6.6 Hospitals

The location of hospitals in the medieval period was dictated by several considerations. They were often located beyond the town wall partly as they required space for agricultural activities, but they also required access to water for both spiritual and practical purposes. They would be located on main roads to enable pilgrims as well as the poor and sick to access them. Alms from passers-by probably contributed greatly to their revenues and many were located at stopping places such as bridges and gates248. The location of the two hospitals in Stafford fit these considerations.

St John the Baptist’s hospital in Forebridge was first mentioned in 1208249 and by 1295 there were attached tenements for the poor250. Its precise location has been debated, but a description of it from the 15th century suggested that it stood near Green Bridge and later documentary sources suggest that it was located on the western side of the modern Bridge Street251 (this location is depicted on map 7). In 1929 human remains were discovered in the yard of The Grapes Hotel on the corner of Bridge Street and Newport Road252. Some reports of the time suggested that they may have been Bronze Age in date, but this has not been proven253. Another report described at least some of the human remains as being contained in 'a brick structure, which somewhat

241 Greenslade et al 1979: 207; Staffordshire HER: PRN 00776 242 Staffordshire HER: PRN00777 243 Birmingham Archaeology 2004: 1 244 Staffordshire HER: PRN 03193 245 Carver nd.: sites a44 and a46 246 Midgley & Donaldson 1959: 97 247 Ibid: 92 248 Rawcliffe 2007: 251-274 249 Baugh 1970: 290; Staffordshire HER: PRN 00789 250 Midgley & Donaldson 1959: 83 251 Ibid; Baugh 1970: 293 fn 56 & fn 57 252 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00790 253 Ibid

52 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment resembled a vault'254. Two stone coffins were recorded in the 19th century during the construction of The Grapes Hotel itself255. It is possible, therefore, that these relate to a burial ground associated with the hospital, particularly as documentary sources record burials taking place there256. A hospital on this site would fit most of the criteria laid out above; it was located next to the river and adjacent to one of the main bridges where alms could be begged from those waiting to enter the town as can clearly be seen in map 5. The location of this hospital by the early 13th century may have helped to stimulate the growth of the Forebridge suburb.

However, it has also been speculated that the site of the hospital was located further south east along the Lichfield Road. A substantial stone building survived as part of the White Lion Inn until it was demolished in the mid 1970s257. A late 19th century photograph shows this structure quite clearly with two small mullioned258 windows259. Since at least the late 19th century this building was believed to include the surviving remains of the hospital. However, given the strong documentary evidence for the Bridge Street site, this building may in fact represent a high status secular property. A capital messuage is recorded in Forebridge in the early 16th century belonging to Lord Stafford’s principal free tenants who had come to prominence by the mid 15th century260.

A leper hospital is mentioned in the mid 13th century located at Radford, c.2.5km to the south east of the town along the modern A34 (cf. HUCA 27)261. References to it cease after the early 14th century and it is possible that it was re-founded and re-dedicated as St Leonard’s Hospital located in Forebridge c.1km from the town262. The first references to St Leonard’s occur in 1386-7 when its patron was Lord Stafford; it was founded for the maintenance of a priest and the poor263. The site of the hospital is marked on the first edition 6” OS map as being located in the area of St Leonard’s Primary School on St Leonard’s Road264. The site of a burial ground is also marked on this map to the north of the modern A34, approximately 225m to the south east of the supposed hospital site265. The burial ground as shown on the 1st edition OS map places it, not only adjacent to the main road, but also next to the Spital Brook. Records from the 16th century note that the income of the master of the hospital came from arable, meadow and pasture which were held within the Forebridge manor266. The hospital lands may have extended for quite a

254 Baugh 1970: 293 fn 58 255 Carver nd.: STa45 256 Baugh: 291 & 293 257 Staffordshire HER: PRN 52620 258 Mullion - A vertical member dividing a window into two or more lights. (Scope note reproduced from the Thesaurus of Monument Types by kind permission of English Heritage. © 2008 English Heritage). 259 Staffordshire Past-track: SAMS Acc No., P2000.22.28, img: 2670 (18/3045) 260 Midgely & Donaldson 1959: 90 261 Staffordshire HER: PRN 50413 262 Baugh 1970: 294 263 Ibid: 293 264 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00778 265 Ibid; PRN 00779 266 Baugh 1970: 294

53 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment distance along the road, although there is no description of the buildings present at its dissolution in the 16th century which may have indicated how extensive the hospital had become by this date.

2.5.7 Communications

There remained three main routes into the town during the medieval period. The route passing through the town from north to south, speculated as having been a Roman road and the route east past the King’s Pool. In the mid 13th century a ‘bridge of the king’s pool’ is recorded suggesting there was a road over the dam which created the pool267.

It has been suggested that the street pattern of Stafford implies that there was no major route to the west of the town in the medieval period268. However, it could be argued that the presence of the royal (town) castle during the 11th and 12th century would have influenced the location of a major westward route through the town. Subsequently this route may have suffered a gross reduction in traffic from the 13th century following the gradual decline in status of the royal castle. The reduced public prominence of any westward route may have been further exacerbated if it was adopted as a private route to the baronial Stafford Castle (cf. 2.5.2.2).

The bridge crossing the River Sow to the south of the town is likely to be the ‘great bridge’ referred to in c.1200 and in an agreement for its maintenance drawn up in 1351. It is not referred to as Green Bridge until the 1590s269.

2.6 Post Medieval (1500 to 1699)

2.6.1 Town walls

The c.1600 map clearly depicts the town gates and walls which appear to have been constructed of both stone and timber (cf. 2.5.1). Documents suggest that in the late 16th century part of the town wall to the south east was used as a quarry to repair Green Bridge270, although the c.1600 map shows a continual stretch of wall here. The walls were apparently repaired in the 1640s in response to the military threats of the Civil War. The walls were destroyed by Parliamentarian forces in 1644271 and by the early 1670s the walls were said to be in ruins272.

The north gate had become the town gaol during the early 17th century and the road through it was apparently widened in 1617. By the late 17th century it was a ruin and a house of correction was built upon the site retaining an

267 Greenslade et al 1979: 197 268 Walker 1976: 41 269 Ibid 270 Greenslade 1979: 199 271 Carver nd.: 4. Town walls 272 Greenslade 1979: 199

54 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment archway for the road to pass through. The southern and eastern gates survived throughout the 16th and 17th centuries273.

2.6.2 Castle (Baronial)

Numerous repairs to Stafford Castle are documented throughout the 16th century. During the later part of the 16th century and into the earlier 17th century the family moved into Fair Lodge, whose location is unknown274. Presumably the move was at least partly prompted by the increasing need for repairs, but as a consequence of their departure the castle fell into ruination and so it is described in 1634275. However, it was re-occupied at the time of the Civil War and held for the Royalists, but following a brief siege it was handed over to the Parliamentarian forces who slighted it in 1643276.

The deer park at Stafford Castle was surveyed in 1521 when around 400 deer were kept there. Queen Elizabeth I visited the castle via Broadeye Bridge to the west of the town in 1575; c.1600 it was described as the new bridge277. It is likely that by the 15th century this was a private route to Stafford Castle which took those visitors that the Stafford family particularly wanted to impress via a circuitous route through their deer park; rather than the more direct southerly route through Forebridge. Both of these routes to the castle have been proposed as having medieval origins.278 A map of 1681 perhaps reiterates this point279. Of the four routes out of the town the westward route is depicted extending through parkland and a track rather than a definite road is suggested. It should also be noted that the maintenance of Broadeye Bridge was still the responsibility of Lord Stafford in the mid 19th century.280

2.6.3 Settlement

Three 17th century maps281 all suggest that the town had not expanded much beyond its medieval limits by this time and this is represented on map 8. Indeed all three maps show the western half of the town to be sparsely developed, particularly around Broadeye. Archaeological excavations on the western side of the town, at Bath Street and St Mary’s Grove, identified post medieval cultivation or garden layers282. These areas had seen some activity during the medieval period mostly represented by pits. It has been suggested that this represents a change in use for this area, although it has not yet been established how densely settled this area was during the medieval period. Consequently it is not yet possible to state with any confidence whether this

273 Ibid 274 Darlington & Soden 2007: 214 & 223 275 Ibid: 223 276 Ibid 277 Greenlade et al 1979: 197 278 Darlington & Jecock 2001: 19 279 WSL 66/92 280 Greenslade et al 1979: 197 281 Anonymous copy of map dated c.1600; Speed’s map of Stafford 1610 (Greenslade 1979: 188); Anonymous map dated 1681 282 Carver nd.: sites 18 and 34-36

55 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment area had seen a significant withdrawal of occupation from the medieval into the post medieval periods.

Map 8: Post medieval Stafford

On the eastern side of the town at Tipping Street there was further evidence of cultivation following a period of industrial activity which appears to have ceased in the 12th century283. The land to the rear of some of the properties in Eastgate Street appears to have been used for agriculture from the 13th

283 Ibid: site 19

56 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment century into the 18th century284. The 17th century maps depict houses lining both sides of these streets but little is identified to the rear of these properties285. It is possible that there had been a change of use within the back plots. It would appear that they were no longer being used for industrial purposes and that this was coupled with a change in the way the inhabitants were disposing of their rubbish. The fact that this land was being used for agriculture, or even gardens is not necessarily evidence of the complete depopulation of the eastern side of the town from the late medieval into the post medieval period. Two early 17th century surveys suggest that many of the tenements in the town had gardens and that such land was so prized that tenants were enclosing land that did not belong to them. The survey suggests that fruit trees were particularly important while pig sties are recorded within two tenements286.

To the north of the town on the east side of Gaolgate Street archaeological investigations also suggest that the rear of the properties were used as gardens during the late 16th and 17th centuries. Cellars constructed on the street frontage in the 18th and 19th centuries have removed much evidence of the buildings which stood here prior to that date. The excavated remains of a cobble floor and a possible wall footing suggest a short period of activity in the early to mid 16th century close to the rear of properties along Gaolgate Street. However, by the late 16th century pit digging was occurring. This has potentially removed evidence of earlier activity in this area. However, the presence of sandstone building rubble in these pits would suggest a period of rebuilding in the later 16th century287.

Documentary sources suggest that higher status houses were located along Greengate Street and Gaolgate Street during the post medieval period as evidenced by the surviving timber framed High House which was built c.1595288. Timber framing of probable 17th century date is visible in several other buildings within theses two streets289. Other examples have been demolished and included the Roebuck Inn, which stood at the corner of Martin Street and Greengate Street290 and a 17th century timber framed building demolished in c.1983 which had stood on the opposite corner of St Mary’s Passage from the High House291. Other post medieval timber framed properties may survive enclosed within buildings of 18th and 19th century appearance. Evidence for one such earlier building survives within the roof space of the former Post Office (an early 18th century town house) on Greengate Street292.

284 Staffordshire HER: PRN 03174 285 WSL 55/2/74; WSL 66/92 286 Kettle 1968-70: 24-45 287 Earthworks Archaeology 2004: 15-18 288 Greenslade et al 1979: 190; Staffordshire HER: PRN 08285 289 P. McKnight pers. comm.. 290 Staffordshire Past Track: Donor ref G94.133.0001 (83/15679) 291 Staffordshire HER: PRN 03194 292 Stephen Dean pers. comm..

57 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

2.6.3.1 Suburbs

The suburbs to the north (Foregate), and south (Forebridge), are clearly shown on the 17th century maps293. The infilling of The Green at Forebridge had clearly begun by the late medieval period, although at the time of a 1681 map of the area it is depicted as being fairly devoid of buildings (map 8)294.

The development of Stafford beyond the medieval town walls and its medieval suburbs was restricted by the presence of the River Sow and the marshland which still existed in the post medieval period to the east and north west of the town.

2.6.4 Administration, Welfare and Education

2.6.4.1 Administration

During the 16th century Stafford’s role as the centre of administration for the county was being eroded by the growth of other Staffordshire towns; in particular Wolverhampton. By 1544 this town had taken over the gaol deliveries and by the mid 1570s was the location for the assizes295. Wolverhampton was an important town in the post medieval period being the location of an influential wool market. Throughout this period there were attempts to return the gaol deliveries and the assizes to Stafford, with the bishop of Lichfield supporting the claims in 1570. The Shire Hall was rebuilt in the 1580s to accommodate the assizes in the town, although it was not finally completed until 1607296. During the 17th century the location of the assizes was held mostly in Stafford, but occasionally in Wolverhampton297.

A prison is recorded within the North Gate in the mid 16th century, although this may have been located here from an earlier date (cf. 2.5.4.1). The lower storey of the North Gate was provided for use as the county gaol in the early 17th century; from which date it began to be known as ‘Gaol Gate’. The county gaol was rebuilt adjacent to the North Gate in the 1620s. By the late 17th century Gaol Gate was in disrepair and permission was granted in the 1680s for a house of correction to be built on the site of the town gate298. An arch for the road was incorporated into the structure, which also provided access to the county gaol299.

2.6.4.2 Welfare

With the suppression of the religious hospitals in the mid 16th century the provision of charity moved away from the ecclesiastical sphere into the private

293 WSL 55/2/74; WSL 66/92 294 WSL 66/92 295 Greenslade et al 1979: 200-201; Assizes: the county court which heard both civil and criminal cases 296 Ibid: 201 297 Ibid 298 Ibid: 204 and 228 299 Ibid

58 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment realm (cf. 2.6.6.3)300. An Act passed in 1563 ordered the compulsory collection of charity payments for the relief of the poor in part to fill the hole left by the hospitals301. The earliest private almshouses were located in Martin Lane and were built c.1564, although by 1606 they appear to have gone out of use302. John Palmer, the rector of St Mary’s, provided for an almshouse in his will in 1639 in Martin Street303. The only surviving Post Medieval almshouses in the town are those provided by Sir Martin Noell which included a chapel and were built c.1660304 (Plate 2).

Plate 2: Sir Martin Noell Almshouses

2.6.4.3 Grammar School

Following the dissolution of St Mary’s College in 1547 the Counter’s chantry priest was retained as the school master, although the school building which stood in the churchyard was seized by the Crown305. The burgesses petitioned King Edward VI for funding for the school and he granted revenues from the former collegiate estate in 1550, which became known as ‘the Free Grammar School of King Edward VI’306. The grammar school was established in the disused St Bertelin’s Chapel where it remained until the early 19th century307. The school was originally a day school for the sons of the town’s inhabitants, but boarders were being taken on by c.1600308.

300 Astill 2000: 228 301 Greenslade et al 1979: 230 302 Ibid: 265 303 Ibid 304 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08314 305 Evans 1970: 308; Johnson 1979: 164 306 Ibid; Greenslade et al 1979: 206; Johnson 1979: 164 307 Johnson 1979: 164-166 308 Ibid: 165

59 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

2.6.5 Economy

Documentary sources suggest that Stafford had seen an economic decline by the mid to late 16th century. Queen Elizabeth I visited Stafford in 1575 where she heard complaints from the townspeople that the loss of the assizes to Wolverhampton had helped to reduce prosperity in the town309. This decline was compounded by the fact that there was no longer a market for woollen caps: an Act of Parliament passed in 1571 to encourage the country to wear them failed to have an impact310.

Earlier in the 16th century the Chantry Commissioners, who were tasked with suppressing the hospitals of St John and St Leonard in Forebridge noted that the town was one of four in the county “where most need is to have hospitals for the relief of the poor”, suggesting that an economic decline had set in by this point311. However, they also reported that in the case of St Leonard’s charity had not been given to the poor in the last 20 years312. From the late medieval period onwards there had been a change in attitudes towards the poor, whereby they became increasingly marginalised in society. Essentially those who were considered to be deserving had to prove their need before they received charity313. It is possible therefore that this changing attitude towards the poor was in part responsible for the reduction in charity given in Stafford during the 16th century. Consequently this may not necessarily be evidence that the town was in economic decline during this period; rather a reflection of changing social attitudes throughout the nation.

2.6.5.1 Markets and fairs

Stafford appears to have continued to be a successful market town during the post medieval period. The market cross which stood in Market Square was repaired for the visit of Queen Elizabeth I in 1575314. It is likely that Gaolgate Street was the site of a cattle market by the 16th century as it is referred to as Rothermarket and Cow Street between the 15th and 17th centuries315.

The three fairs which had been licensed in the medieval period were supplemented by a further two fairs in 1614 and 1685. One of the earlier fairs was dealing in horses by the early 17th century by which time the wide junction of Tipping Street and Eastgate Street was known as Horsefair. The fair licensed in 1685 was established specifically to deal in horses and cattle316.

The innkeepers formed part of a guild by 1590317 and their presence in the town is often associated with the success of the market, providing

309 Greenslade et al 1979: 265 310 Ibid: 216 311 Ibid: 290 312 Ibid: 294 313 Astill 2000: 225 314 Greenslade et al 1979: 213 315 Greenslade et al 1979:213 316 Ibid 317 Ibid: 216

60 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment accommodation to visitors and those travelling across country. However, their success is also probably due to Stafford being an administrative centre for the county (cf. 2.6.4).

2.6.5.2 Agriculture

During the early 1980s archaeological interventions noted post medieval, and sometimes medieval, cultivation soils across the town; that is the area lying within the walls318. It is likely that most of this cultivation relates to gardening activities and certainly gardens are a feature of a 17th century survey of Lord Stafford’s lands within the town (cf. 2.6.3)319.

The lease of Coton Field, granted in 1455, was re-issued for a further 99 years in 1554, but in 1663 the lord of Coton manor, Walter Fowler, challenged the corporation’s rights to the field. However, the town peoples’ rights to pasture their animals following harvest on the three fields in Coton manor was confirmed in 1669320. Coton Field was leased to the town again in 1699321. Agriculture appears to have continued to be an important part of the inhabitants’ livelihood throughout the post medieval period.

Land described as waste in Castle Church, between the church and Forebridge was enclosed by Lord Stafford in 1512322. A map of 1788 shows Green Common as surviving, presumably as a much smaller area than previously.

2.6.5.3 Mills

The watermill, which stood to the east of Eastgate, was in ruins by c.1570323 and is depicted on the c.1600 map as such.

Alterations to the watermill on Mill Bank were carried out in the mid 16th century and an archaeological excavation suggested that these resulted in a mill with two parallel waterwheels serving separate mills to the north and south324.

By the early 17th century there were three malt mills in the town; one was located in Salter Street325. Malt Mill Lane still connects Salter Street to North Walls. By the late 17th century the town corporation had built their own malt mill and in 1690 a ruling was passed which stated that all the town’s innkeepers should grind their malt at the town mill326.

318 Carver nd.: nos. 18, 22, 34, 35/36, 37, 42. 43, 45 and 46; Carver 1975: 63; 319 Kettle 1968-70 320 Greenslade et al 1979: 208 321 Ibid: 209 322 Midgley & Donaldson 1959: 94 323 Greenslade et al 1979: 212 324 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00786 325 Greenslade et al 1979: 212 326 Ibid

61 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

A windmill had been built in Foregate by the later 16th century but its precise location is unknown327.

2.6.5.4 Industry

Cloth making is represented by two guilds the first was established in 1609 and the second in 1682. It is likely that this trade had continued throughout the medieval and post medieval periods; there is also evidence that the watermill at Mill Bank was used to full cloth as well as grind corn during the early post medieval period328 and possibly earlier.

Leatherworking trades are also represented, a glovers’ company being established in 1614-5 and a saddlers company in 1672329. Shoemakers, glovers and tanners are all recorded in documentary sources during the 17th century330. A 17th/18th century tanning pit was archaeologically excavated at North Walls in 1999331. An archaeological excavation in Clark Street to the south of Eastgate Street discovered a series of large pits dating to the 17th/18th century332. The function of the pits was not discussed, but it is possible they may have been industrial in nature. The site lies approximately 55m to the south of the tanning pit at North Walls and it was not uncommon for noxious industries to be concentrated on the edge of settlements. Both sites lie adjacent to the marshland east of the town which would have provided water for the industry.

By the 16th century the making of woollen caps was an important industry for the town, but by the close of the century it appears to have severely declined333.

The most influential trades people in the 17th and 18th century were said to be the retailers, particularly the butchers and mercers334. The butchers had their own guild by 1566335. Their trade was presumably dependant upon the success of the cattle market held in Gaolgate Street and which were probably brought into the market from the surrounding countryside. By the 16th and 17th century the farming of cattle dominated sheep farming in Staffordshire336.

Despite the claims for an economic decline during the 16th century by the 17th century the evidence suggests that the town was at least economically stable with little evidence of a complete decline except in certain industries, notably cap making.

327 Ibid: 213 328 Birmingham Archaeology 2003: 16 329 Greenslade et al 1979: 216 330 Ibid 331 Staffordshire HER: PRN 51574 332 Carver 1975: 63 333 Greenslade et al 1979: 216 334 Ibid: 215 335 Ibid: 216 336 Palliser 1976: 102

62 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

2.6.6 Religion

2.6.6.1 St Mary’s Church

The spire of St Mary’s Church was blown down in 1594 and appears to have been rebuilt as a tower by 1611337. The college was dissolved in 1548 and various buildings were recorded at this date including a deanery and houses for the canons and vicars choral (cf. 2.5.6.1)338. The vicars’ choral’s house is believed to have been used by the master of the grammar school by the early 17th century when it was known as ‘College House’ (HUCA 2)339.

St Bertelin’s chapel was converted to house the grammar school in the mid 16th century (cf. 2.6.4.2)340.

2.6.6.2 Other denominations

A Roman Catholic chapel and school were established in the town after 1685, but it was destroyed during a riot in 1688341.

By 1650 Stafford had a strong Baptist congregation, but nothing further is known of their activities in the town until the 19th century. However, in 1672 several Quakers’ were imprisoned for preaching in the town342, so it is possible that the Baptists’ were similarly oppressed. By this date the Quakers had already bought land in Foregate Street for a burial ground, although a house for worship was not purchased until 1674343. A Presbyterian meeting house with an attached burial ground was opened in 1689 in Balk Passage in the town and this was encased within the later chapel which was considerably extended during the 19th century344.

2.6.6.3 Religious Houses

The two friaries, the Franciscan’s in Foregate and the Austin’s in Forebridge were both suppressed in 1538. A 16th century inventory of the Franciscan friary buildings included a church, hall, kitchen, buttery and brewhouse. A house called Grey Friars stood on this site by 1610 surrounded by a wall with a gatehouse345 (cf. map 8). Whether any of the friary buildings survived within this arrangement is unknown. Grey Friars was apparently demolished during the Civil War (1644)346, however, a large property surrounded by a wall and with a gatehouse is clearly depicted in the area of Grey Friars upon the 1681 map.

337 Carver nd. 338 Evans 1970:308; Carver nd. 339 Greenslade et al 1979: 206; Staffordshire HER: PRN 52862 340 Johnson 1979: 164 341 Greenslade 1979: 250 342 Ibid: 253 343 Ibid 344 Ibid: 255; RCHME 1986: 217 345 Greenslade et al 1979: 270 346 Ibid

63 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

The church of the Austin friary, in the southern suburb of Forebridge, was demolished in 1542347.

2.6.6.4 Hospitals

The hospitals of St John’s and St Leonard’s were both suppressed by the Chantry Commissioners in 1548. Some of the buildings belonging to St John’s survived into the 17th century348.

2.6.7 Communications

The bridge to the south of the town had been rebuilt in stone by the later 16th century and was first referred to as Green Bridge in the 1590s349.

A bridge is depicted on the c.1600 map west out of the town at Broadeye. It is clearly shown as a wooden bridge. Speed’s map (circa 1611) suggests there was a new bridge at Broadeye and is clearly depicted as being of stone. The 1681 map clearly shows a stone bridge with a stone gate.

2.7 18th & 19th century (1700 to 1899)

2.7.1 Town Gates

The South Gate was demolished in 1777. Most of the East Gate was taken down c.1800, but part of the northern side was left standing and was later incorporated into a shop350. The remainder of Gaol Gate to the north of the town appears to have been demolished by c.1800351.

2.7.2 Castle (Baronial)

Following its demolition in the mid 17th century the site of the castle was plundered for its stone and gravel so that by the end of the 18th century little remained. In 1783 landscaping was carried out which included the heightening of the keep walls, but by c.1800 very little of the medieval fabric survived. In c.1811 the surviving ‘sham’ castle was built, which is almost entirely of 19th century date352.

The Great Park was dis-emparked in 1735353 and it is likely that at this point the landscape was enclosed for agriculture. It is also probable that Burleyfields Farm and Hill Farm were developed at some point after this date to farm this new landscape.

347 Ibid 348 Ibid: 291 & 293 349 Greenslade et al 1979: 197 350 Ibid: 199 351 Ibid: 191 352 Darlington & Soden 2007: 223 & 225 353 Darlington & Jecock 2001: 16

64 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

Map 9: Late 19th Century Stafford

2.7.3 Settlement

2.7.3.1 Town

A comparison of the town map (1681) and Sheriff’s map (1788) suggests that settlement had expanded within Broadeye on the western side of the town. This had occurred mainly along Broad Street and the former Cherry Street, now lost within Stafford College, and parts of Tenterbanks. The medieval occupation levels in this area are not yet clearly understood so it is not possible to say with any confidence whether the expansion during the 18th

65 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment century represents the re-occupation of a formerly settled area, but this is likely. However, few historic buildings survive within Broadeye.

Around twenty-two 18th century buildings are known to survive within the town. These historic structures are generally concentrated along the main north-south axis of Greengate and Gaolgate Street and along Salter Street and Eastgate Street, where the burgage plots were also still largely legible within the townscape (cf. map 9). They were probably built originally as residences, although they have all since been converted to other uses. The earliest is the Grade II* listed Chetwynd’s House on the corner of Greengate Street and Mill Bank which was constructed in c.1700 and was the home of William Chetwynd (mayor of Stafford in 1742, 1750 and 1763)354. In the 19th century it was the home of William Horton, who built the first boot and shoe factory in Stafford355. Other listed 18th century buildings in the town include a purpose built bank dating to c.1795356 and the Shire Hall dating 1795-8357.

Of the eleven 19th century listed buildings within the town only three are not definitely domestic in origin, although there are three further buildings in Greengate Street, which may have been purpose-built shops in the early 19th century358. Nos. 6 and 7 Market Square was built as a bank in c.1810, as was the Old Bank House also in Market Square which dates to c.1840359.

2.7.3.2 Suburbs

Two late 18th century maps360 suggest that the expansion of Stafford beyond the limits of the medieval town wall and suburbs had not occurred by this date. The stimulus for settlement expansion appears to have been the Acts of Enclosure and Drainage which were passed in 1800361 (cf. map and 2.7.5.3).

The land to the north of Stafford appears to have been developed at an earlier date than that to the south. Gaol Square was probably created circa 1800 within the area of the northern medieval suburb of Foregate and partially upon the site of the town gate (Gaol Gate). This was made possible by the relocation of the county gaol and house of correction (cf. 2.7.4.1). Gaol Road, running almost parallel to Foregate Street, was constructed as part of this opening up of the area in circa 1803 and was probably also encouraged by the re-location of Stafford County Gaol further out of town in the late 18th century362. The development of streets and buildings within the area between these two roads was probably at least partially encouraged by the expansion of industry, and of boot and shoe manufacture in particular (cf. 2.7.4.5). Several streets had been constructed by 1838; County Road and Sash Street,

354 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08277; Extract from unknown publication: William Chetwynd born 1664 and died 1770 355 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08277 356 Ibid: PRN 08300 357 Ibid: PRN 08301 358 Ibid: PRN 08266, PRN 08290 and PRN 08291 359 Ibid: PRN 08306, PRN 08304 and PRN 08298 360 Yates’ map of Staffordshire (1775) Sheriff’s map of Stafford (1788) 361 Greenslade et al 1979: 210; Midgley & Donaldson 1959: 94 362 Greenslade et al 1979: 191

66 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment linking Gaol Road to Foregate Street and further north Cross Street, Friar Street and New Street (cf. HUCA 7). The earliest housing development was probably speculative by individual builders and was probably not funded by the shoe manufacturers. Until the 1860s the majority of manufacturing sites were probably workshop-sized buildings lying adjacent to the rear of the manufacturer’s house363. Such workshops, known as shoe warehouses, are known to have existed in Foregate, Greyfriars, Browning Street and New Street364.

The increase in purpose-built all-encompassing shoe factories from the 1860s onwards may have further stimulated housing development as the workers were no longer home based and needed to be close to their place of employment. By the late 19th century this area was dominated by terraced housing and manufactories (cf. map 10).

Even into the later 19th century employers lived adjacent to their works, but increasingly as they gained in social status, they began to seek more desirable properties in pleasant surroundings. In 1851 only the three largest manufacturers lived away from their place of business; two of these in the southern suburb of Forebridge365. During the mid 19th century villas, detached and in terraces, were being built to house Stafford’s growing middle classes. Such properties included the Grade II Listed Brunswick Terrace and those along the adjacent Newport Road (HUCA 23). To the north similar properties were built along Eccleshall Road, including 181-183 (formerly ‘The Hollies’) which was built circa 1879 for the shoe manufacturer Richard Podmore (HUCA 16)366.

At Forebridge to the south of the town centre the settlement was still largely centred upon The Green by the early 19th century. The earliest surviving buildings are 7-10 Bridge Street367 which contains a 17th century core and 6 The Green, which dates to the mid to late 18th century368. A map of Stafford dated 1838 shows development across The Green while two distinct streets had been laid out to the north (Lichfield Road) and to the south (Bailey Street) leading into Wolverhampton Road. This map also shows a large building set in its own grounds further south east along the Lichfield Road marked as ‘Forebridge Hall’, but now known as Green Hall369. This Grade II listed building dates to the early 19th century, by 1851 it was occupied by the shoe manufacturer Edwin Bostock370. However, the extant house is likely to have replaced an earlier property on the same or similar site. In 1732 this house appears to have had three gables and a large barn off Lichfield Road371. On the opposite side of Lichfield Road a further large house was built c.1810, which became St Joseph’s Convent in the early 20th century. The suburb of

363 Harrison 2005a: 16, 17 and 21 364 Ibid: 20 365 Ibid: 21-23 366 Ibid: 92 367 Ibid: PRN 08189 368 Ibid: PRN 14105 369 Ibid: PRN 08296 370 Harrison 2005a: 22 371 Midgley & Donaldson 1959: 91

67 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

The Hough, further along Lichfield Road, apparently dates from the mid 19th century at a similar period as the construction of St Paul’s Church372.

Settlement along Wolverhampton Road existed by the late 18th century and this may have encouraged the construction of the Catholic chapel in 1791 (cf. 2.7.6.2)373 The streets around the Catholic Church on Wolverhampton Road, many of which take their names from the Austin Friars and include Middle Friars and Friars Terrace, date to the 1860s/70s374. Many terraced houses survive in this area. On the eastern side of Wolverhampton Road, further terraced housing survives in the area between Cramer Street and Shrewsbury Road, which mostly date to the 1860s/70s with the exception of Cramer Street and Alexander Road, the latter dating to the early 20th century375. The Oval, a road of high status houses, was laid out in the grounds of Green Hall in the mid 1890s (although the majority of the buildings are of 1920s/30s date)376.

In 1835 Forebridge was transferred from Castle Church parish to the borough of Stafford377. It appears that this stimulated further, mainly residential development. Garden Street must have existed by c.1830 as a house of approximately this date survives on the corner of Cramer Street with an adjacent stable block378. Cramer Street itself was apparently laid out in the 1880s379. Part of the land which was transferred was the area now known as Castletown to the west of the town centre. Suburban development in Castletown in the form of terraced houses began in the mid 19th century. This development was probably encouraged by several industrial developments in the 1860s and 1870s (Henry Venables’ sawmill and W. G. Bagnalls’ engine works cf. 2.7.5.4 and HUCA 20), but was probably initially stimulated by the opening of the railway station in 1837380. A terrace of five Grade II listed houses along Newport Road was built between 1837 and 1850 specifically to house railway workers381 and Castletown itself was said to be dominated by homes for the railway workers by 1876382.

Other areas which expanded during the 19th century included the village of Doxey to the west, outside the EUS project area, and at Queensville to the south of the railway line on the Lichfield Road (HUCA 27). The small hamlet of Littleworth to the east of the town had new streets laid out by the 1880s and a school was built there in anticipation of housing development (HUCA 10)383. Corporation Street was laid out in the 1890s and some houses had been built along it by the time the second edition 25” OS map was published in 1901 as

372 Ibid 373 Yates 1775; Greenslade et al 1979: 250 374 Ibid 375 Ibid 376 Ibid; P. McKnight pers. comm.. 377 Greenslade et al 1979: 194 378 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08265 & PRN 14090 379 Greenslade et al 1979: 194 380 Ibid: 195 381 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08330 382 Greenslade et al 1979: 195 383 Greenslade et al 1979: 193

68 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment are houses to the north east of Sandon Road in Peel and Victoria Terraces (HUCA 8 and HUCA 7)384.

Rowley Hall, a Grade II listed country house was built c.1817 situated in its own grounds; this property may have been located upon the site of or in the area of a medieval manor house (cf. 2.5.3.2)385. By the end of the 19th century this area was still relatively rural in character with a few roads to the north, including Crescent Road and Lawn Road, having been developed with higher status suburban homes. Lawn Terrace comprises eight Grade II listed houses, which were built in 1868 as part of a scheme to provide higher status housing. 386 However, the venture had failed to attract customers and the development of this area appears to have stalled for several decades387.

Map 9 shows the extent of suburban expansion, particularly of the terraced houses, across the landscape, particularly when compared with maps 6 and 8.

2.7.4 Administration, Education & Welfare

2.7.4.1 Administration

The 16th century Shire Hall was demolished, along with several houses to the east, in the 1790s to make way for a new hall which was completed in 1798. The Grade II* Shire Hall was extended in the 1850s388 and operated as the county court until the 1980s.

The Borough Hall389 was built in 1877 and may have been used by the county council until the County Buildings390 were completed in Martin Street in 1895. The County Buildings had been extended by 1899 (HUCA 1).

The prison reformer John Howard visited Stafford’s county gaol in the late 18th century and found its conditions to be inadequate391. Howard compiled a book revealing the poor conditions of gaols in the country, which was instrumental in the passing of the 1784 Prison Reform Act392. This required Justices of the Peace to examine county gaols and if they were found to be in poor repair new prisons should be built. If the current site was unsuitable then the new prison should be sited elsewhere. This was undoubtedly the background to the decision to construct the new county prison in Foregate field between 1787 and 1793. The Grade II late 18th century prison block survives within the extant complex393. The prison was enlarged on three occasions during the 19th century; each occasion was prompted by

384 Ibid 385 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08337 386 Ibid: PRN 14088 387 Greenslade et al 1979: 195 388 Ibid: 202; Staffordshire HER: PRN 08301 389 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08236 390 Ibid: PRN 08312 391 Greenslade et al 1979: 204 392 Brodie et al 2002: 38 393 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08246

69 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment successive Prison Reform Acts. The 1824 Act advocated that each category of prisoner (which was based on age, sex and offence) should be held separately. Architectural plans of ‘ideal prisons’ were proposed which provided separate yards and buildings. At Stafford this resulted in construction of 13 separate yards394. This Act may also have resulted in the construction of the Grade II Listed North Detention Block, also known as ‘The Crescent’ by the architect Joseph Potter Junior in 1833395. The curving form of the architecture allowed for the provision of multiple small yards, but also reflected the architectural fashion of the day396. This building is believed to be the only example of its kind to survive397. The 1839 Act introduced the separate cell system where inmates were to be provided with large cells and their interaction was curtailed398. Two new blocks were constructed at Stafford to provide accommodation based on the new system. Both prison blocks are Grade II Listed, were designed by Joseph Potter Junior and were built in circa 1840 and circa 1853 respectively. The 1839 Act became compulsory in 1865 and this may have been instrumental in the decision to significantly enlarge ‘The Crescent’ in the 1860s399.

2.7.4.2 Welfare

A general infirmary was built to serve Stafford between 1769 and 1772 in Foregate Street; extensions to the complex included a fever ward in 1829400. It was restored and enlarged between 1892 and 1897401. There was also an infectious diseases hospital at Kingston Hill by the late 19th century402.

By the mid 19th century there were two lunatic asylums located in Stafford. The earliest (later the County Asylum) had been built in 1818 to the south of Crooked Bridge Road. It was originally intended for all social classes but after 1854 it was used solely for lower status patients. The buildings survive as a Grade II listed building, St George’s hospital; the former sanitary wards also survive. It is a very early example of this type of hospital, which was forward thinking in its architectural design and ethos regarding patient care. Its architecture was of a classical style and the hospital resembled a country house. It was felt that this restrained and elegant building style was ‘calming’ and would benefit patient recovery. The complex was designed to increase the activity of the patients rather having them lying in their beds. They were encouraged to work in the extensive gardens, the laundry, kitchens and the on-site farm as part of their therapy. The gardens are shown on the first edition 25” OS map as lying to the north west and south east of the main range. Woodland landscaping and single trees are depicted to the south and these largely survive. This map also depicts the ‘Asylum Farm’, where

394 Brodie et al 2002: 61 395 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08249 396 Brodie et al 2002: 73 and 74 397 Ibid: fig. 3.30 398 Ibid: 91-2 399 Ibid: 74 400 Greenslade et al 1979: 234; Staffordshire HER: PRN 00567 401 Greenslade et al 1979: 234 402 Ibid

70 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment presumably inmates were also encouraged to work, making the whole venture self-sufficient403.

Cotonhill Asylum was built in 1854 for higher status patients and also stood in its own landscaped grounds. Only the chapel and the lodges survive today404.

The parish workhouse was opened in the outbuildings of College House on the south side of St Mary’s churchyard in 1738405. When College House was demolished its timbers were sold to support the foundation of the workhouse406. The workhouse comprised six chambers as well as a work room and other service rooms. It was said to be in a poor state by 1806407. The Castle Church parish workhouse stood in Forebridge by the late 18th century408. Both of these workhouses were replaced by the Union Workhouse which was built in Marston Road in 1837-8409. This workhouse was constructed to form four courtyards, which were usually separated into male and female areas, and stood in its own landscaped grounds410. By circa 1880 the site included a smallpox hospital to the north west of the plot and by circa 1900 a large infirmary had been constructed to the south.

Two public baths are known to have served Stafford during the late 19th century. Friary Baths in Forebridge, which opened in 1871, is marked on the first edition 25” OS map of 1880 suggesting it was still operating at that date. The Royal Brine Baths opened on Bridge Street in 1892; the brine bath being fed from a spring on Stafford Common411.

2.7.4.3 Education

The King Edward VI Grammar School, which was housed in St Bertelin’s Chapel was moved to a purpose-built schoolhouse in Gaol Square in 1801 following the demolition of the chapel412. This building proved to be unfit for purpose and another school house was built nearby in Gaol Square in 1813, where it remained until the 1860s413. A new school was built on Newport Road between 1860-2 and was funded largely by the Salt family (cf. 2.8.3.3)414.

There are several other surviving 19th century schools in Stafford, although they are no longer used for education. The Stafford National School was opened in 1825 in Gaol Road and was re-named Christ Church in 1856415.

403 Staffordshire HER: PRN 05566 & PRN ?? 404 Staffordshire HER: PRN 05565; Greenslade et al 1979: 234 405 Evans 1970: 307; Greenslade et al 1979: 206 and 231 406 Greenslade et al 1979: 206 407 Ibid: 231 408 Ibid 409 Ibid.; Staffordshire HER: PRN 52863 410 Ordnance Survey. 1880. 1:500 map 411 Ibid: 234 412 Johnson 1979: 165 413 Ibid 414 Greenslade et al 1979: 234; Ibid: PRN 14320 415 Ibid: 231

71 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

However, a survey of historic schools undertaken in the 2007 suggested that the surviving buildings on the site were built in three phases all of which date to the late 19th century416. St Mary’s Church of England School was built to the south of the churchyard upon the site of the parish workhouse in 1856; it survives as a Grade II listed building417. To the south of the town in Forebridge, St Paul’s Primary School has been identified as dating to the mid 19th century418.

A Technical School was built in 1896 on Earl Street419; it has since been used as local government offices but by the 21st century had been converted to a public house and flats420.

2.7.5 Economy

2.7.5.1 Markets & fairs

Stafford remained a thriving market town throughout the 18th and 19th centuries and until the mid 19th century activity was still focused upon Market Square. In 1853-4 a guildhall was built with a market hall to the rear which specialised in food. By the late 19th century this hall was known as St John’s Market. In 1880 the butchers’ market was transferred from Market Square into an extension of the market hall421.

Livestock markets also continued and in 1838 there was a cattle market in Eastgate Street, which transferred to Market Square in 1839. By the late 19th century there were three private cattle markets at the Junction Inn, Newport Road, the Talbot Inn, Victoria Road and at the Sun Inn in Lichfield Road422.

Pig and sheep markets were still in evidence by 1877. The former was held in Gaol Square to the north of the town with the sheep market taking place in Eastgate Street423.

Pitcher Bank in Eastgate Street got its name from a crockery market which was being held here by 1835424. It has been speculated that this was the site of a market during the medieval period although there is no evidence for continued into the 19th century (cf. 2.5.5.1). This site is shown on map 9.

Several fairs were still in operation in the 18th and 19th centuries dealing in horses, sheep, cattle, wool and cheese. Only three cattle fairs and a monthly cheese fair survived by the turn of the 20th century425.

416 Staffordshire HER: PRN 51589 417 Greenslade et al 1979: 231; Staffordshire HER: PRN 08303 418 Staffordshire HER: PRN 51884 419 Ibid: PRN 14079 420 P. McKnight pers. comm.. 421 Greenslade et al 1979: 213 422 Ibid: 213-4 423 Ibid: 214 424 Ibid 425 Ibid

72 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

2.7.5.2 Mills

The watermill on Mill Bank was rebuilt with two waterwheels in the 1830s by George Brewster, a corn miller426.

The windmill at Broad Eye was built as a flour mill in 1796 from material salvaged from the 16th century Shire Hall which had been demolished in 1793-4427. By the mid 19th century a steam engine had been added to the windmill to increase the efficiency of flour milling, but operations appear to have ceased in 1896. The sails and machinery were removed and it was then used as a warehouse.428

2.7.5.3 Agriculture

The archaeological excavation along the eastern side of Clark Street and south of Eastgate Street suggested that agricultural activity was being carried out until at least the late 18th century in this area429. The excavation also noted a series of large pits of 17th to 18th century date, but did not suggest whether they were used for domestic waste or for industrial purposes430. However, map evidence from the early 17th century onwards suggests that this area of Eastgate Street was developed and it is possible that the cultivation noted in the excavation related to garden soils or an area of land given over to market gardening.

By the end of the 18th century Foregate field was being farmed on a three course rotation431. In 1800 an Act of Parliament was passed to enclose various open fields and commons to the north, south and east of the town432. The fields were laid out with straight boundaries by surveyors and created a landscape with a geometric pattern, which is identifiable on map 43 as ‘Planned Enclosure’. The area known as Stafford Common was retained as open land and from 1834 the townspeople had the right to graze cattle from May until Christmas Eve433.

Coton Field, however, remained open until the Stafford Corporation Act (1880) was passed to allow enclosure and is shown on map 43 as Strip fields. The field was slowly developed, with only the Coton Field Allotments surviving434.

The drainage of the marshlands around Stafford appears to have been undertaken around the mid 19th century; particularly the construction of the Broad Eye-Pans Drain to the west and the Rickerscote Drain to the south

426 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00786 427 Staffordshire HER: PRN 03279; Friends of Broad Eye Windmill 1998: 4 428 Ibid 429 Carver 1975: 63 430 Ibid. 431 Greenslade et al 1979: 209 432 Ibid 433 Ibid: 210 434 Ibid: 209

73 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment east. The River Sow was straightened and deepened in response to this drainage work435.

2.7.5.4 Industry

By the early 18th century cloth was considered to be an important industry in the town although it is not known whether the townspeople were involved in its manufacture or solely in its sale. Stocking makers were recorded in the town during the mid 18th century and a cotton factory had been established in 1803436. A silk mill operated between c.1835 and c.1861437, but its location is not known. Hat making had apparently become an important industry by the early 19th century438.

By the mid 19th century Stafford’s principal industry was the manufacture of boots and shoes439. Shoemaking had been an important industry in the town since the medieval period and was traditionally located in the area of Broad Eye440. Shoemaking was carried out in the homes of the workers and the shoes were made bespoke for the individuals requiring them441. From the 17th century ready-made shoes were being produced and eventually the industry became organised with the first processes being carried out in shoe warehouses, usually located behind the shoe masters’ house, whilst the ‘making up’ continued to be undertaken as a cottage industry in the shoemakers/cordwainers homes442. In Stafford William Horton, of Chetwynd House, is believed to have been the first manufacturer of ready-made shoes443. He built a shoe warehouse behind Chetwynd House in Mill Street for this purpose circa 1812, which operated until circa 1854444. The number of shoe manufacturers in the town more than doubled between 1784 and 1818445. In 1854 there were 24 bespoke shoemakers still working in the town in the traditional manner and there were 18 manufacturers446.

435 Midgley & Donaldson 1959: 94 436 Greenslade et al: 217 437 Ibid 438 Ibid 439 Harrison 2005a: 13 440 Ibid: 19 441 Ibid: 12 442 Ibid: 12-16 443 Ibid: 12 444 Ibid: 12 and 17; Jenkins 1967: 231 445 Greenslade et al 1979: 217; Harrison 2005a: 13; Jenkins 1967: 231 446 Harrison 2005a: 13

74 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

Map 10: Shoe making district on the second Edition 25” OS map

The development of purpose-built factories run on an industrial scale with powered machinery and housing multiple manufacturing processes was only slowly adopted in the Stafford shoe industry. The front wall of what is believed to be the first purpose-built shoe warehouse (1857) survives on the corner of the Tipping Street and Eastgate Street (HUCA 1). However, from the 1860s industrialised shoe manufacturing began to be concentrated in the

75 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment area to the north of Stafford between Foregate and Sandon Road (HUCA 7 and map 10), although manufactories continued to operate within the town centre into late 19th century447. At least eight of the established manufacturers moved to newly built premises in this area between circa 1863 and circa 1878; this is not including any new manufacturers who may have moved into Stafford during this period448. Several of these factories survive including Richard Podmore’s manufactory on Wogan Street, which is better known as the Stafford Box Company, and the factory standing on Marston Street between Fancy Walk and Rowley Street (later C. H. Riley’s) (cf. plate 3)449. The expansion of the manufactories to the north of Stafford also encouraged the development of housing for the workers and some of the owners (cf. 2.7.3.2 and map 10)450.

The growth of the shoe industry led to an increase in service industries such as tanning, the manufacturer of packaging and wooden heels, as well as the metal ware required for the manufacture of shoes451. A large tannery existed between Eastgate Street and Back Walls which was bought by the shoe manufacture T. B. Elley in 1842 for the shoe trade452. Archaeological work in this area has shown that tanning had occurred on this site from the 17th century onwards (cf. 2.6.5.4)453.

The shoe industry also encouraged the establishment or relocation of engineering works to Stafford. Three notable engineering companies operated in Stafford during the late 19th century all of which were originally engaged in the manufacture of tools and machinery for the shoe industry454. These three companies were all based in the shoemaking quarter of the town: W. H. Dorman had a works in Foregate Street in 1870; Keats Bros. Co. in Gaol Road by 1886, but who moved to Albion Works, Marston Road circa 1890 and John Evans (later Lloyd, Yates & Knight) set up in Fancy Walk in 1881455.

Other engineering works include W. G. Bagnall Ltd who set up an engine factory at the Castle Engine Works in Castle Street in 1876 where they built steam and diesel locomotives456. Several companies involved in the manufacture of abrasive products, possibly associated with the shoe trade (for example through the provision of sharpening equipment for shoe knives), existed in 1872457. The most significant of these was Rooper & Harris Ltd who worked out of the Castle Works in 1893 and which eventually became the Universal Grinding Wheel Co. Ltd. (cf. 2.8.4.3)458. The earliest industrial

447 Ibid: 44; First edition 1:500 OS map circa 1880 448 Ibid: 44-45 449 Staffordshire HER: PRN 50361 and PRN 50363 450 Ibid: 56 451 Ibid: 64 452 Harrison 1979: 54 453 Staffordshire HER: PRN 51567 454 Greenslade et al 1979: 219 455 Ibid 456 Greenslade et al 1979: 219 457 Staffordshire Industrial Archaeology Society 2000: 97 458 Ibid.

76 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment site in this area was probably the Castletown sawmills established by Henry Venables in Doxey Road in 1864459.

Plate 3: Boot & shoe factory, Marston Road

Other industry associated with Stafford included brewing and salt working. There were two breweries in the town in 1860, although there was only one surviving at the turn of the 20th century460. A saltworks was established on the southern edge of Stafford Common in 1893 following the discovery of salt in the area in 1877461. This site probably supplied brine to The Royal Brine Baths in the town centre.

The increase in large-scale industrial works outside of the town centre during the 19th century is highlighted when comparing maps 42 (Post Medieval Stafford) and 43 (18th/19th century Stafford).

2.7.6 Religion

2.7.6.1 Anglican Churches

St Bertelin’s Church to the rear of St Mary’s was demolished in 1801462.

The architect Sir Gilbert Scott extensively restored St Mary’s Church, rebuilding the southern aisle, transept and crossing, between 1841 and

459 Greenslade et al 1979: 218 460 Ibid: 219 461 Greenslade et al 1979: 221 462 Ibid: PRN 00774

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1842463. He was also responsible for the restoration of St Chad’s church in 1870. This included the rebuilding of the west front and the south aisle walls464.

Three churches were established in the 19th century to serve the new communities in the growing northern and southern suburbs. Christ Church in Foregate Street to the north of the town was consecrated in 1839 initially as a chapel of ease, but by 1844 it had its own parish465. St Paul’s Church, Lichfield Road in Forebridge was consecrated in 1844 with a parish covering Forebridge, Castletown and Rickerscote466. A daughter church was built in Castletown in the 1860s and was consecrated to St Thomas. A mission church to serve Rickerscote followed in 1877467.

2.7.6.2 Other denominations

A Grade II listed Roman Catholic chapel was opened in Wolverhampton Road in 1791 upon land which had apparently belonged to the medieval Austin Friary (cf. 2.5.6.5). The surviving church was built in 1861-2 and was designed by the architect E. W. Pugin468. The presbytery built in 1791 survives as a Grade II listed building469.

The earliest surviving non-conformist chapel in Stafford is the Grade II* Quaker Meeting House in Foregate Street which was built in 1730. The burial ground had been purchased in 1668 and was extended in 1680 and 1725470. The Presbyterians had a chapel by the late 17th century (cf. 2.6.6.2) and other non-conformist chapels were also established during the 18th century. The Congregationalists had converted an existing building in Salter Street by 1788 and the Methodists were holding meetings in a house in Cherry Street in 1785471.

By the 19th century there were many other non-conformist denominations meeting within the town and the few chapels which survive are mostly of this date. One of the earliest surviving Brethren Meeting Houses, a Grade II listed building, was built in Church Lane in 1839 complete with a small graveyard.472 A Methodist New Connexion chapel built in 1847-8 survives in Gaol Square, although it no longer serves as a chapel473 and a Baptist Church built in 1895- 6 survives at The Green, Forebridge474.

463 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08340 464 Ibid: PRN 00775 465 Greenslade et al 1979: 248 466 Ibid; Staffordshire HER: PRN 14090 467 Greenslade et al 1979: 248 468 Ibid: 250; Staffordshire HER: PRN 08538 469 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08359 470 Greenslade et al 1979: 250; Staffordshire HER: PRN 08244 471 Greenslade et al 1979: 250 472 Staffordshire HER: PRN 14076; Greenslade et al 1979: 250 473 RCHME 1986: 218; Greenslade et al 1979: 250 474 Greenslade et al 1979: 250

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2.7.6.3 Cemetery

The municipal cemetery to the south west of Eccleshall Road was opened in 1856475, by 1880 it had two mortuary chapels both of which survive.

2.7.7 Communications

2.7.7.1 Coaches

By the late 18th century Stafford was one of the stations on several long distance coaching routes. As a consequence there were four coaching inns in the town476; only the Swan Hotel and The Bear Inn in Greengate Street survive477. The main roads out of the town were all turnpiked in the 18th century in an attempt to improve the state of the roads and thus shorten road journey times, particularly by coach. The road improvements would presumably have helped to ensure the continuing success of the town’s markets and fairs during this period.

2.7.7.2 Canals

The Staffordshire and Worcestershire canal was opened in 1772 approximately 2.5km to the south east of the town. In order to link the town to the canal a tramway was built from Radford Wharf to a wharf on the River Sow to the south of Green Bridge, but this venture ceased in 1818. In 1814 a short branch canal was constructed from the canal into the River Sow to the north east of Baswich, known as St Thomas’ lock478. The river was then made navigable for boats up to the east end of Green Bridge where a further branch was cut to a coal wharf479.

2.7.7.3 Railways

The Grand Junction Railway, which ran between Birmingham and Warrington, opened with a small station at Stafford in 1837. The station was re-located and enlarged in 1861-2. Three further lines were opened; one which ultimately linked Stafford to London was opened in 1847. A well preserved goods shed dating to c.1860 stands adjacent to this railway line off Friars Terrace480. Another railway line to Wellington in Shropshire, via Newport was opened in 1849 and a line to Uttoxeter was opened in 1867481.

The railway had a significant impact upon the town as heavy engineering companies were attracted here throughout the 19th century. Among these firms was the previously mentioned Castle Engine Works which produced

475 Greenslade et al 1979: 235 476 Greenslade et al 1979: 198 477 Staffordshire HER: PRN 14086 and PRN 08283 478 Greenslade et al 1979: 198; Staffordshire HER: PRN 50013 479 Greenslade et al 1979: 198; Staffordshire HER: PRN 50014 480 Staffordshire HER: PRN 50457 481 Greenslade et al 1979: 198

79 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment railway locomotives. The railway was also an important employer in the town with many employees living in Castletown (cf. 2.7.3.2).

Victoria Road, with a bridge over the River Sow, was constructed in 1865-6 to provide a direct link between the town and the railway station482.

2.8 20th & 21st century (1900 to circa 2010)

2.8.1 Settlement

Map 11 shows the direction and expanse of suburban development during the 20th and early 21st centuries. Much of the early 20th century expansion occurred along the main roads such as Weston Road and Tixall Road to the east (HUCA 10) and Stone Road to the north (HUCA 17). The latter formed part of Holmcroft where private houses were built from the mid 1930s and council housing from the late 1940s483. To the north east houses were built along a purpose-built road, Oxford Gardens, from the first decade of the 20th century (HUCA 8 and HUCA 14)484.

Council houses were built on two estates, Coton Field and Lammascote in 1913-14 and further council houses were built in the 1920s and 1930s to the north of the railway station either side of the Stone Road. In the post war period further council estates were built at Coton Farm on Douglas Road; south of Corporation Street and at St Peter’s Gardens, Rickerscote485.

Other areas of Stafford which had become residential during the early 20th century include Rowley Grove and Park Crescent at Rowley Bank, where villas were developed486. Further housing was constructed in this area during the 1920s and 1930s487. Burton Manor Village, to the south of Rowley Bank in HUCA 23, was conceived as a ‘garden city’ suburb with the first houses being built in 1926 for the Hall Engineering Company488. However, only a fraction of the original estate was actually built, comprising Manor Square and Manor Green489. The housing estate was designated as a Conservation Area in 2008. The ‘Garden City’ movement was initiated in the late 19th century by Ebenezer Howard who sought to improve the housing and environment of working people believing that it would initiate a new civilisation490. It began as a private enterprise and was taken up by business owners of which Burton Manor is an example. Following the Housing Act (1919) council housing also took on some of the key principles491. Some of these principles can be seen within the early and mid 20th century housing estates in Stafford. The

482 Ibid: 189 483 Greenslade et al 1979: 193 484 Ibid: 194 485 Ibid: 195-6 486 Ibid: 196 487 Ibid: 196 488 Stafford Borough Council. 2008. Web 30/10/2008 489 Ibid. 490 Miller 2010: 1 491 Ibid: 18, 22, 79 and 86

80 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment movement has had a profound influence on housing development throughout the 20th century492.

Map 11: Suburban expansion by period of origin

The greatest increase in housing development occurred during the mid 20th century and included the development of Beaconside, to the north east, was

492 Ibid: 86-89

81 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment primarily developed as a housing estate for RAF Stafford in the 1950s (HUCA 9)493.

Some of the late 20th and early 21st century development has been carried out upon the site of earlier development including industrial sites such as the Lotus Factory on Sandon Road (HUCA 8) and a concrete works north of Silkmore Lane (HUCA 28).

2.8.2 Open land and parks

There are several areas of open or park land within the study area most notably Stafford Common to the north. Part of Coton Field was preserved for allotments and these date from the late 19th century. Two large sports fields either side of Riverway adjacent to the River Sow also provide large open space on the eastern side of the town. North of Silkmore Road the drainage system which ensures that the land does not return to marsh has left another substantial area of green space.

The golf course to the north east of Stafford Castle had been established by the 1920s.

Victoria Gardens to the south of the town was opened with a bandstand in 1908 and was extended twice in 1911 and the 1930s494.

2.8.3. Administration, Education & Welfare

2.8.3.1 Administration

The Borough Hall continued to be used as local government offices during the 20th century until it was converted into the Gatehouse Theatre495. Stafford Borough Council offices were built in the late 20th century upon the site of the Royal Brine Baths.

The County Buildings were extended several times during the first half of the 20th century, the first block of offices being completed in 1915. Further buildings were constructed in the 1970s496.

The county gaol was used as a military detention centre during the First World War until 1921. It was not reused as a prison until 1939 when it reopened for civilians497. It continues to serve as a prison in the early 21st century.

493 Greenslade et al 1979: 194 494 Ibid: 189 495 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08236 496 Greenslade et al 1979: 202 497 Ibid: 205

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2.8.3.2 Welfare

Large parts of the General Infirmary in Foregate Street were demolished 1999-2000 to make way for a retail park, although the range fronting onto the road survives498.

The County lunatic asylum in Crooked Bridge Road was renamed St George’s Hospital in 1940. By the early 21st century the buildings were no longer in use, but survive as a Grade II listed building499. However, the main blocks at the Cotonhill asylum were demolished in 1976 and a new general hospital was constructed upon the site500. A few original buildings, the chapel and two lodges, survive501.

In 1948 the Union Workhouse was converted into an old people’s home and hospital. This was demolished in 1974 and a new hospital was opened in Corporation Street in 1974502 which was still operating in the early 21st century.

2.8.3.3 Education

The Grade II listed St Leonard’s School was built at the new suburb of The Hough c.1910 to 1915 upon the supposed site of St Leonard’s medieval hospital503. Other schools were built to serve the outer suburbs during the 20th century.

St Mary’s Church of England National School closed in 1939 and the buildings were converted to a shopping centre in 1990504.

The Stafford Girls High School was formed in 1903 and moved into a purpose-built building in 1907; it was extended in a similar style in 1930505. The school, in The Oval (HUCA 25), was designed by John Hutchings, the County Architect, who was responsible for revolutionising school design to promote maximum light and ventilation506. The Girls High School removed to new buildings at West Way, Highfields in 1963 (HUCA 24) and The Oval buildings became part of Stafford College507. In the early 21st century the buildings were converted to flats508.

498 Staffordshire HER: PRN 05567 499 Staffordshire HER: PRN 05566 500 Staffordshire HER: PRN 05565; Greenslade et al 1979: 234 501 Staffordshire HER: PRN 05565 502 Greenslade et al 1979: 231 503 Staffordshire HER: PRN14099 504 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08303 505 Greenslade et al 1979: 264; P. McKnight pers. comm.. 506 P. McKnight pers. comm.. 507 Greenslade et al 1979: 264; P. McKnight pers. comm.. 508 P. McKnight pers. comm..

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Map 12: Early 21st Century Stafford

The King Edward VI Grammar School was merged with the Stafford Girls High School in 1976 to form the King Edward VI High School. The newly formed High School was housed in the former Girls High School buildings at West Way (HUCA 24). The former Grammar school buildings were initially being used as the Chetwynd middle school. However, by the early 21st

84 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment century the Grade II Listed buildings were being used as an educational centre known as the Chetwynd Centre (HUCA 25)509.

The Technical School in Earl Street was built in the late 19th century (see above) and a new building for the technical college was eventually completed on Tenterbanks in 1956. It became Stafford College of Further Education and was extended to cover a much larger area between Earl Street and Tenterbanks510. By the early 21st century the development of the college had effectively removed Cherry Street although its alignment is still discernible in parts.

2.8.4 Economy

2.8.4.1 Markets and Fairs

The livestock market at the Talbot Inn was still operating in the 1930s and was taken over as the corporation Smithfield at this time511. Part of St John’s market to the rear of the guildhall appears to have been demolished to make way for the Guildhall shopping centre during the late 20th century. The market survives in a building off Crabbery Street and Broad Street.

In 1909 the fairs were removed to land at Lammascote fair, but by the 1930s all the town’s fairs had ceased512.

2.8.4.2 Mills

The watermill at Mill Bank was demolished in 1957513. It was archaeologically excavated in 2003 and the waterwheels from the mill are displayed on Mill Bank along with the date stone. The remains of the mill pond also survive within Victoria Park.

The tower of the windmill at Broad Eye still stands and in the early 1900s it was used as a factory producing mineral water. Between the 1920s and 1940s it was used as a shop when it fell into disrepair. The Friends of Broad Eye Windmill was formed in the 1990s and aim to restore the building as a heritage resource514.

2.8.4.3 Industry

The shoe district, lying between Foregate and Sandon Road, still retained many shoe factories in the early 20th century, but by the later 1930s there were only nine shoe factories left in Stafford (cf. HUCA 7)515. The reduction

509 Staffordshire HER: PRN 14320 510 Greenslade et al 1979: 265 511 Ibid: 214 512 Ibid 513 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00786 514 Staffordshire HER: PRN 03279; Friends of Broad Eye Windmill 1998: 4-5; P. McKnight pers. comm.. 515 Third Edition 25” OS map (circa 1920); Greenslade et al 1979: 217-218

85 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment in the number of factories was probably the result of the amalgamation of individual businesses as around 3,000 people were still employed in the industry during the 1930s516. The largest of these was Lotus Ltd which had formed out of the Bostock family’s business (cf. 2.7.5.4). Lotus were originally based in the Bostock’s 19th century factory on Foregate Street until a fire in 1901 led to the company moving to a new factory in Sandon Road in 1903 (HUCA 12 and HUCA 8)517. After 1957 Lotus was the only shoe manufacturer still operating in Stafford until circa 1998 when the factory was finally demolished518.

In the early 20th century the industries associated with shoe manufacture expanded and some moved into the former shoe factories. One such company was the Stafford Box Co. who took over at least part of the former Podmore shoe factory in Marston Road (c.1916)519. The company began producing boxes for the shoe industry in the early 20th century520. The Marston Street buildings survive having been converted to domestic apartments in 2003/4521. Several of the former shoe manufactories and associated shoe buildings survive within the Foregate area522.

A large engineering works was opened on the western side of Lichfield Road in 1903 and was extended in 1940 and again in 1960. In 1962 a new factory was built at the far end of St Leonard’s Avenue. By 1970 all of these buildings formed part of G. E. C523. Part of the works off Lichfield Road was redeveloped in the early 21st century as part of a retail park, but the remainder of the works still operated in 2009 as two companies Areva T & D Ltd and G.E.C Alsthom; the site off St Leonard’s Avenue forming part of the former company.

The locomotive company, Bagnalls at Castle Engine Works, was taken-over several times during the 20th century and construction of locomotives at the works ceased in 1961524. A number of the industries which were established in the 19th century have survived in some form including the grinding wheel company, originally Rooper & Harris Ltd., which following mergers circa 1914 became Universal Grinding Wheel Co. Ltd525. By 1921 the works in Castletown had been relocated to a new factory on Doxey Road (HUCA 20)526. The business still operates, under French ownership, on the Doxey Road527. W. H. Dorman, which originated as an engineering works supplying machinery to the shoe industry, diversified into motor engineers during the

516 Greenslade et al 1979: 218 517 Ibid. 518 Information from the Past Track website: Donor Ref: ' SAMS Acc. No., P99.6.518, img: 3307 (16/3610)'; Staffscc-net viewed 27/07/2011 519 Harrison 2005b: 98 520 Ibid. 521 Harrison 2005c: 110-123 522 P. McKnight pers. comm.. 523 Greenslade et al 1979: 220 524 Greenslade 1979: 219 525 Greenslade et al 1979: 220; staffscc.net nd. Web 01/08/2011 526 Ibid; Ibid 527 Staffscc.ned. nd.a.. Web 01/08/2011

86 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment early 20th century528. The company moved from Foregate to Tixall Road in the 1920s and continues to operate as Perkins Engines (Stafford) on this site (HUCA 10)529.

By 1920 a further two salt works had been established near Stafford Common. A court order signalled the end of the Stafford salt industry following complaints about building subsidence in the north of the borough530.

A series of industrial estates have been established during the post war period to the east of Common Road to the north east of the town centre (HUCA 13 on map 12). Industrial sites still exist around Castletown and to the south west of the town (HUCA 20 and HUCA 26 on map 12).

2.8.4.4 Retail

Several streets within the town centre have been redeveloped since the Second World War to create purpose built shopping centres (see map 10). These include Princess Street, Stafford Street and the northern side of Crabbery Street. The Guildhall Shopping Centre which incorporates the old Guildhall dates to the late 20th century.

Late 20th century retail parks and large supermarkets have become established adjacent to the ring road, along Foregate Street and at The Green in Forebridge.

2.8.5 Religion

Christ Church in Foregate Street and St Thomas’ Church in Castletown have both been demolished since 1979531.

Churches were built within the outer suburbs during the post war period to serve these new communities. St John the Baptist’s Church in Littleworth was opened in 1928 and St Peter’s Church in Rickerscote Road was opened in 1957532.

Three non conformist chapels were demolished in the late 1960s/early 1970s; a Primitive Methodist chapel, Snow Hill built in 1849; a Baptist Chapel in Water Street and a Congregationalist chapel in Martin Street dating to 1811- 1812533. In 1988 the former Presbyterian Chapel, which may have incorporated the original building of 1689, was demolished to make way for the extant Trinity Church534.

2.8.6 Communications

528 Staffscc.net. nd.b. Web 01/08/2011 529 Ibid. 530 Greenslade et al 1979: 222 531 Staffordshire HER: PRN 03147 532 Greenslade et al 1979: 249 533 Greenslade et al 1979: 250 534 P. McKnight pers. comm..

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2.8.6.1 Canals & rivers

Coal was still being brought to the coal wharf at Green Bridge along the River Sow from the Staffordshire and Worcestershire canal at Baswich in the early 1930s. However, the coal wharf in Stafford had been backfilled by 1939535.

2.8.6.2 Railways

The two local railway lines closed in the 1960s; that to Wellington via Newport and the line to Uttoxeter536. Both of these railway lines had been established as cycle paths within the town by the early 21st century. The railway station was re-built in 1962 as part of a modernisation scheme, which included the electrification of the West Coast mainline537.

2.8.6.3 Roads

The M6 was opened approximately 2.5km to the west of the town in 1962538. Two motorway junctions serve Stafford to the north and south thus ensuring that it is connected to the national road system.

The ring road was opened in the 1970s in order to reduce traffic levels through the centre of the town.

535 Greenslade et al 1979: 198; Staffordshire HER: PRN 50014 536 Greenslade et al 1979: 198 537 P. McKnight pers. comm.. 538 Greenslade et al 1979: 196

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PART TWO: CHARACTERISATION AND ASSESSMENT

Section summary

The HUCAs’ which exhibit the greatest heritage significance are those associated within the historic town core (HUCA 1 and HUCA 2), just beyond the town walls (HUCA 22) and Stafford Castle (HUCA 18). HUCA 1 represents the core of the medieval town where the early plan form is still legible in the form of burgage plots, market places and street pattern; whilst HUCA 2 focuses upon the medieval and earlier religious heart of the town; the Grade I listed St Mary’s Church and the Grade II* Listed St. Chad’s Church. Victoria Park, lying just to the south of the town centre, provides the focus of HUCA 22. The HUCA incorporates the River Sow and the site of the medieval watermill. The park was established in the early 20th century and retains its municipal character in the surviving structures and buildings. HUCA 18 is the site of the Scheduled Stafford Castle and its associated earthworks which potentially include the site of the deserted settlement of Monetville. In all four HUCAs there is a high potential for below ground archaeological deposits to survive.

HUCA 3 also lies within the historic core and there remains a high potential for archaeological deposits to survive across this area as has been shown by previous interventions. The medieval street pattern is also largely preserved, with the loss of only one street. However, whilst historic buildings still make a positive contribution to the townscape, there has been significant redevelopment during the 20th century. This development has included works associated with Stafford Castle, the Crown Court and retail development to the west of Gaolgate Street.

Also of particular heritage importance are the areas identified as having formed part of the medieval suburbs lying to the north and south of the town centre. HUCA 25 focuses upon the suburb of Forebridge where archaeological remains of medieval settlement have been recorded. This suburb incorporates the site of the medieval St John’s Hospital and Austin Friary. The HUCA is also characterised by 19th century suburban expansion comprising both villas and terraced houses. These historic properties and the associated street pattern make an important contribution to the historic character of the wider townscape. HUCA 7, lying to the north incorporates the site of the medieval suburb of Foregate, which includes the site of the medieval Franciscan friary. However, few historic buildings survive along Foregate Street, although exceptions include the Grade II* Friends Meeting House (1730). The

89 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

HUCA also incorporates the industrial suburb which lies between Foregate Street and Gaol Road which began to develop from the mid 19th century onwards. The historic character of the HUCA has seen late 20th century redevelopment, but enough survives of the terraced housing and factories, principally involved in the shoe industry, for it forms an important townscape element, which encapsulates an important period in Stafford’s history.

Within some HUCAs there is a contrast in building style between that of the 19th century speculative building and the early 20th century development which was increasingly influenced by the philosophy behind the Garden City Movement. This can be seen in HUCA 8 and HUCA 27. However, it is in HUCA 23 where the full impact of Garden City principles can be appreciated even though the suburb was not completed to its original plan. The importance of the Burton Manor suburb to Stafford’s townscape was acknowledged in its designation as a Conservation Area in 2008.

Areas of open space also contribute to the historic character of the HUCA. This includes the mid 19th century cemetery in HUCA 16 and Stafford Common (HUCA 15). The latter is an area of common land given to the inhabitants of Stafford in the early 19th century. It had formed part of an open field and earthworks relating to this period of its history survive across the character area. HUCA 11 comprises 20th century sports grounds, but there are areas where 18th/19th century water meadow systems potentially survive.

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Engine Works was built for W. G. Bagnall Ltd who built railway locomotives at the site until 1961. The works makes an important historic and townscape contribution to Stafford.

HUCA 6 is dominated by 19th century institutional buildings; HM Stafford Prison and the former county lunatic asylum, later St George’s Hospital. The historic buildings associated with these two complexes are all Grade II listed in acknowledgment of their national importance and St. George’s Hospital lies within a Conservation Area. The earliest block within the prison dates to the late 18th century and is a unique survivor of its type.

HUCA 10, HUCA 13, HUCA 14, HUCA 17 and HUCA 26 generally comprise 20th century development. This is predominantly housing development, with the exception of HUCA 13 and HUCA 26 which are industrial in character. However, historic buildings are also present within these HUCAs (with the exception of HUCA 14 and HUCA 26) which contribute to the history of the town and may be worthy of local listing.

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3. Statement of Historic Urban Character

The HCTs used within the Extensive Urban Survey have been chosen to reflect the townscape character and consequently have differed from those chosen for the broader Historic Landscape Character (HLC). A list of the HCTs used within the EUS forms Appendix 2.

The HCTs were based upon the current character and upon an understanding of the development of the town as identified within the background summarised in Part One.

The HCTs are dated by period of origin and the over arching periods are broken down as follows:

Early Medieval 410AD to 1065AD Medieval 1066 to 1485 Post Medieval 1486 to 1799 Early 19th century 1800 to 1834 Mid 19th century 1835 to 1864 Late 19th century 1865 to 1899 Early 20th century 1900 to 1934 Mid 20th century 1935 to 1964 Late 20th century 1965 to 1999 Table 1: Early 21st century 2000 to 2009 Periods

3.2 Statement of Historic Urban Character (HUC)

The Historic Urban Character Areas have been defined using the HCT’s to identify areas of similar origin, development and character. Eight HUCAs have been identified for Stafford.

Each of the statements of HUC is not static and may need to be enhanced or adapted as new information which alters our understanding and perception of each area becomes available539.

This is followed by a table covering the Heritage values (which will have been outlined in the ‘Statement of significance’ paragraph’) and a series of recommendations specific to each HUCA.

3.2.1 Heritage values

These values are based upon the guidelines produced by English Heritage in ‘Conservation Principles: policies and guidance for the sustainable management of the historic environment’ (2008) and identifies four areas for discussion. It should be noted that within each HUCA it is specifically the historic environment which is under consideration and that this judgement is based upon an interpretation of the available evidence. Other individuals or

539 In line with English Heritage 2008: paragraph 38

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organisations may choose to ascribe alternate values to the historic environment of an area; key to this process of understanding is the degree of transparency by which these judgements are reached. The scope of this project precludes any analysis of non-heritage values which are equally valid in terms of valuing the character of historic towns.

Evidential value* The extent to which each HUCA can contribute to an understanding of past activities and how that can contribute to the town’s wider history. This can be either legible or intangible within the townscape and as such covers the spectrum of heritage assets from historic buildings or structures to the potential for below ground archaeological deposits*. The extent to which the impacts of the removal or replacement of the heritage assets within each character area will be considered in terms of the effects on an ability for future generations to understand and interpret the evidence. Historical value The extent to which the heritage assets are legible within the townscape and how they interact – this can include townscapes/street patterns and individual buildings. Historical associations with events or persons can also add value to the ability of the public and community to engage with the heritage. The extent to which the legibility of the heritage assets has been concealed or altered will also be considered. The opportunities for the use and appropriate management of the heritage assets and their contribution to heritage-led regeneration will also be considered. Aesthetic value Addresses the ability to identify how a place has evolved whether by design or the ‘fortuitous outcome of evolution and use’. It assesses the integrity and aesthetics of the place through the historic components of the townscape and their ability to enhance sensory stimulation. The aesthetic value also addresses whether the character areas may be amenable to restoration or enhancement to form part of a heritage-led regeneration of the town. Communal value Communal values can be commemorative/symbolic, social or spiritual. These values are not easily quantifiable within the scope of this project being subjective to groups and individuals. Consequently in the context of this project the value merely seeks to address the potential for the heritage assets to be used to engage the community/public with the heritage, not only of each HUCA, but also of the wider area. The potential for each zone to provide material for future interpretation is also considered.

Table 2: Heritage values

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3.2.2 Assessment of value

The aim of applying values of high, medium, low is to indicate the likely sensitivities of the historic environment within each zone. The assigned values reflect the current character of the areas and these will alter in response to change. This could include through the results of research contributing to an enhanced understanding of the historic environment; the conservation and enhancement of the environment through positive development and re-development as a result of heritage-led regeneration.

The definition of heritage assets incorporates buildings, monuments (above and below ground archaeology), place, areas, landscapes and townscapes.

Evidential High There is a high potential for the heritage assets with the value HUCA to contribute to an understanding of the history of (see * below the town. Archaeological sites are likely to survive (both for regarding below ground and above ground fossilised within the archaeological townscape) and for new research relating to the nature potential) and origins of the built heritage to enhance the understanding of the development of the town. New insights into the history of the town can contribute to an understanding of the development of towns from the medieval period onwards both within Staffordshire and more widely. Medium There is the potential for heritage assets to contribute to an understanding of the history of the town, but there may be fewer opportunities for new insights to be deduced due to the nature of the heritage assets in question or subsequent changes to the historic character of the HUCA. The potential for archaeological deposits to contribute to an understanding of the development of the town may currently be unclear due to the current level of understanding of the origins of the HUCA. The potential may also be impacted by levels of development. Low There are no or very few known heritage assets. The understanding for the potential for above and below ground archaeological deposits to survive may be affected by the current lack of research within the wider area. Mitigation may still be required dependent upon an assessment of both the nature of any prospective new development and the potential of the individual sites being developed.

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Historical High The legible heritage assets either dominate or value significantly contribute to the historic character of each HUCA. There are strong associations between the heritage assets (both tangible and intangible) within the HUCA that are potentially demonstrable and/or the heritage assets make an important contribution to the history of the wider area. There are often designated sites within or lying adjacent to the HUCA and in some cases these may comprise or include portions of Conservation Areas. The high value is not precluded by some degree of 20th/21st century alterations to the historic character. Medium Legible heritage assets are present within the HUCA, but are not necessarily predominant or they have undergone some form of alteration. Their presence, however, may contribute to an understanding of the development of the character area and/or there are potential associations between assets. Further research may clarify these associations and elucidate the contribution of these assets to the history of the wider area. Even in their present form they do enable the public and community to visualise the development of the area over time. Low There are no or very few known legible heritage assets; where they exist their associations are not clearly understood. Aesthetic High The completeness or integrity of the extant heritage value townscape and its contribution to the aesthetics of the zone is significant. There are opportunities to enhance or restore the historic fabric of the HUCA. The HUCAs will often form part of or form the setting to Conservation Areas. Medium The components of the townscape are legible, but there may have been considerable impact by 20th or 21st century re-development of elements of the historic character. It is not possible within this project to discuss whether the modern alterations have positive, neutral or negative impacts upon overall aesthetics. Low The aesthetics of the historic character have been significantly impacted by 20th or 21st century development. It is not within the scope of this project to discuss whether their contributions are positive, neutral or negative within the wider townscape. Communal High Contains numerous heritage assets which could be used value to engage the community through interpretation. The heritage assets clearly form part of a wider history of an area which can be drawn into a narrative. There may already have been a degree of interpretation and/or the community/public already has access to at least some of the heritage assets within the zone.

95 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

Medium The ability for the heritage assets to contribute to the history of the town may be limited by the current understanding, their legibility within the townscape or through limited access. Low There are few known heritage assets which make it difficult to elucidate their history or apply it to a wider interpretation. There is no access or the legibility of the heritage assets is negligible.

Table 2: Assessment of Heritage values

*The potential for below ground archaeological remains to survive will not be comprehensively addressed within the EUS project. Due to the nature of the project and its time constraints it will not be possible to model archaeological deposits based upon probability and impacts of current development therefore this project must be seen as a guide to potential but that ultimately the decision as to whether archaeological mitigation is an appropriate measure will be decided as part of the planning process.

96 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4. Assessment of Historic Urban Character Areas (HUCA)

Map 13: HUCAs and designated heritage assets

97 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.1 HUCA 1: Eastern half of Stafford Town

Map 14: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.1.1 Statement of heritage significance

The HUCA represents the historic core of the county town, which is dominated by retail and administrative buildings (map 14). The latter are generally purpose built structures dating from the late 18th century through to the early 20th century.

The town shows no particular evidence for deliberate street planning and it is possible that it grew organically. However, it has been suggested that Greengate/Gaolgate Street, the primary north-south route through the town, represents the line of a Roman road, possibly making use of an earlier fording point of the River Sow in the area of Green Bridge. If this was substantiated by archaeological or documentary evidence it would mean that the subsequent development of the settlement was determined by a feature which pre-dated the establishment of the Saxon burh in AD913. Furthermore its development may be determined by another potentially early route which leaves the town to the east, along Eastgate Street into Lammascote Road. Some commentators have suggested prehistoric origins but this has not been proven archaeologically. The potential for pre-existing routes, and its location on a low lying promontory into the Sow Valley (cf. map 3), may account for the layout of the street pattern, which appears slightly skewed towards the eastern exit. Town planning during the medieval period is apparent from the

98 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment surviving burgage plots which were discernible on the 19th century ordnance survey maps and which are mostly fossilised within the street scene, the back plots having largely been developed (cf. map 14). Archaeological work has also revealed evidence for burgage plots at Eastgate Street540. Further evidence for town planning is evident from the 17th century maps which depict the town wall, probably constructed in either the 11th or 13th century.

Two market places are fossilised within the modern town, the earliest may have been located at the junction of Tipping Street and Eastgate Street, which may have taken advantage of an important route from the east and thereby account for the street pattern in this area. The main market place, however, lies mid way along Greengate/Gaolgate Street and is still known as Market Square. This formed the market place by the later 13th century and is perhaps further evidence for medieval town planning with the very square shape of it perhaps being created through the demolition of earlier buildings facing onto the main north-south route.

In most commentaries on Stafford, the Market Square lies virtually in the centre of the Saxon burh, whilst the Eastgate Street site appears to lie on its very eastern edge. This may suggest an earlier market in another location, perhaps associated with St Mary’s church (see HUCA 2). However, the true extent of the Saxon burh is currently unknown, although archaeological evidence has suggested that it was smaller than the medieval town, as depicted on 17th century maps (cf. map 3 for possible extent of burh and 2.4.1). A large ditch excavated on the northern side of South Walls may have enclosed the burh as it appears too far north to be part of the medieval defences541. Map 4 shows the possible extent of the burh within the character area. Also shown on this map are two areas where evidence from archaeological work has suggested Saxon activity possibly of an industrial nature, including two pottery kilns, one to the north and one to the south of Tipping Street542 and a possible tanning pit at North Walls543. The tanning pit, which was not closely dated, was located in a marshy area where medieval industrial activities appear to have included the processing of flax suggesting that this area lay outside the burh in the 10th century.

The pottery kilns represent an important industry during the later Saxon period, with three being excavated within the character area in the late 20th century; two at Tipping Street and one in Salter Street (dated to the 10th and 11th century respectively). While the dating of the Tipping Street kilns has been called into question the dates given do indicate that they pre-dated the establishment of the burh. However, the establishment of the burh and proven activity of 9th to 11th century date means there is high potential for Saxon period archaeological deposits to survive within the character area.

Documentary records suggest a range of industries being undertaken by the inhabitants during the medieval and post medieval period. Archaeological

540 Carver 1975: 63 541 Staffordshire HER: PRN 05519 542 Staffordshire HER: PRN 03182 and PRN 01614 543 Staffordshire HER: PRN 51568

99 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment work has recovered evidence for only a few of these industries including flax processing on the eastern side of the town. The site at North Walls recovered evidence of a 17th/18th century tanning pit suggesting that this was the side of the town where tanning took place at least intermittently from the Saxon period. Documentary evidence suggests a tannery existed here into the late 19th century. Access to water, important to this industry, would have been available on the edge of the town. Archaeological work also recovered evidence for small scale metal working on this side of the town.

The importance of industry within the town was evidenced into the late 18th and 19th centuries. Several shoe factories were established within the town during this period as was a brewery to the north of South Walls.

4.1.2 Built Character

Map 15: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

The historic built environment is particularly well represented within this character area where there are 55 Listed Buildings. The earliest of these is the 12th century Grade II* St Chad’s Church, facing onto Greengate Street544. It was the focus of a small parish in the medieval period and a church may have been present here prior to the Norman Conquest (1066).

544 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00775

100 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

The majority of the Listed Buildings lie along Greengate/Gaolgate Street; the earliest of which are three buildings whose origins have been identified as being of 15th century date, although they have all been subsequently altered (cf. map 15). A further four Listed buildings have been recognised as having 16th century origins. Of all of these properties only 10 Church Lane, The Ancient High House and 17th century Bear Inn have exposed timber framing545. The Grade II* Ancient High House, built circa 1595 for John Derrington, is three storeys with decorative timber framing546. It is said to be the largest timber framed town house in the county. Other timber framed buildings do survive within the town, but have generally been refaced in the 18th and 19th century with brick and stucco. Number 18 Market Square has 15th century origins, but was re-fronted in stucco circa 1700.547

Some of the surviving 16th and 17th century buildings have been constructed of dressed stone including 36 Crabbery Street, formerly known as Noah’s Ark Inn (cf. map 15)548. This building is believed to date to the early 17th century and is traditionally associated with Queen Elizabeth I’s visit to Stafford. The late 17th century Grade II* Sir Martin Noell’s Almshouses and Chapel in Mill Street is also constructed of dressed stone549.

The remaining listed buildings are of 18th and 19th century date although it is possible that some of these buildings may retain elements of earlier structures within their fabric. One such building is 34 Gaolgate Street, which has been dated to the 18th century, although earlier timber framing survives internally550. The unlisted historic buildings within the character area also have the potential to retain earlier fabric within later structures.

Several buildings are associated with historic persons or events, although not all of these can be substantiated beyond doubt. King Charles I and Prince Rupert are believed to have stayed at the Ancient High House in 1642, during the Civil War; Charles Dickens’ stayed at The Swan Hotel during a visit to Stafford. The Grade II* Chetwynd House was built circa 1700 for William Chetwynd, MP and Mayor of Stafford; by the late 18th century it was the home of William Horton a boot and shoe manufacturer (cf. 2.7.5.4). The late 17th century Grade II* Eastgate House, currently the Stafford Registrar Office, was the home of another shoe manufacture, T. B. Eley between 1838 and 1858 (cf. 2.7.5.4)551.

Predominant within the streetscape around Martin Street are the administrative buildings of Staffordshire County Council, the majority of which are constructed of dressed stone (HCT ‘Public Buildings’ on map 14). The earliest of these buildings is the Shire Hall which was built between 1795-8 as

545 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08212, PRN 08285 and PRN 14086 546 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08285 547 Staffordshire HER: PRN 12713 548 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08217 549 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08314 550 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08254 551 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08235

101 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment the county court; the nearby Judges’ House dating to 1799-1802552. The adjacent County Buildings were built in the late 19th century and other buildings have been constructed around Martin Street to form an administrative centre during the 20th century. These also include the Borough Hall of 1877 which faces onto Eastgate Street553. Other 18th and 19th century buildings have been converted to council offices during the later 20th century.

4.1.3 Heritage values

Evidential value: Archaeological work has been carried out across High the character area and the survival of deposits has been generally been found to be good. Consequently there is a high potential for further deposits to survive across the HUCA. There is also a high potential for palaeo-environmental remains to survive within the historic core. The surviving street pattern is also of at least medieval, if not earlier, date. Some burgage plots survive, particularly within the street scene, although there has been considerable backplot infilling from at least the 19th century. Extant historic buildings also have the potential to retain earlier fabric relating to their origins and function and so may further inform our understanding of the development of the town. Historical value: The heritage assets are particularly legible within High the HUCA and comprise the historic buildings, the street pattern, including the two market places and burgage plots. This is despite 20th century insertions which include the police station and magistrate’s court lying between Eastgate Street and South Walls. The historic buildings in particular, both listed and unlisted, enable an understanding of the development of the town and its social and economic aspirations and fortunes to be read within the townscape. An important aspect of the townscape is the concentration of public buildings lying to the east of Market Square most notably the 18th century Shire Hall. Several buildings have historical associations with person of note including The Swan Hotel, 36 Crabbery Street and Chetwynd House. Aesthetic value: The historic environment contributes strongly to High the aesthetics of the HUCA and this is complemented by the designation of the Stafford Town Conservation Area and the nationally listed buildings and structures. Change within the HUCA should therefore seek to contribute to the sustainable regeneration of the town for the benefit of the local community and for sustainable tourism. Communal value: Public buildings are a particular feature of the High townscape; these include the Shire Hall and a museum housed in the Ancient High House. There is the potential for heritage interpretation to enable a greater appreciation and understanding of the history of the town for the benefit of the community and visitors. Access to and an understanding of the heritage assets of the HUCA could be enhanced through interpretation for the public benefit. This may support potential sustainable tourism opportunities and offer opportunities for sustainable regeneration of the urban core.

552 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08301 and PRN 08312 553 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08236

102 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.1.4 Recommendations

The heritage significance and values have recognised the importance of this HUCA to an understanding of Stafford’s history as well as to its sense of place. The conservation and enhancement of the heritage assets of the HUCA would contribute significantly to the local character for the benefit of both the community and visitors.

A statement of significance (heritage statement) will be required to assess the impact of any proposed development upon the historic environment as part of any planning application to be made within this HUCA (cf. para. 128 of NPPF)554.

The sympathetic restoration or enhancement of the historic buildings, both Listed and unlisted, would strengthen the historic character and the quality of the wider townscape and the Conservation Area for the benefit of this and future generations (Bullet Point 10 of para 17 (Core planning principles) also paras. 126 and 131 of NPPF)555.

There are numerous designated heritage assets within the HUCA. Where alterations or changes are proposed to the buildings, whether Listed or not, within the Conservation Area the applicant should refer to the Stafford Conservation Area Appraisal and consultation with the Stafford Borough Conservation Officer should take place in the first instance556. Any works on or within the vicinity of the Grade II* Listed Buildings should consult English Heritage during the pre-planning stage. All of the designated heritage assets and their settings are covered under para. 132 of NPPF557.

The heritage assets could make a positive contribution to economic regeneration of the town. In particular the promotion of the re-use of historic buildings to contribute to sustainable development is recommended (paras. 126 and 131 of NPFF). High quality design which is sympathetic to the historic built fabric is the key to retaining the local character of the area as identified in Bullet Point 4 of para. 17 (Core planning principles) and Bullet Point 4 of para. 58 in NPPF.

554 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 555 Ibid. 556 The Conservation Area Appraisal is accessible online at http://www.staffordbc.gov.uk/live/Documents/Forward%20Planning/Conservation/Stafford- Conservation-Area-Appraisal.pdf 557 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf

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development and function. Where development may result in the loss of these heritage assets (whether wholly or in part) archaeological evaluation and/or mitigation may be required to record and advance the understanding of their significance; this is supported in para. 128 of NPPF558.

Any appropriate development within this HUCA should look to improve the historic character and sense of place within the nearby public realm. Where this concerns work within a Conservation Area this may be achieved through consultation with the Borough Conservation Officer. Outside of designated Conservation Areas the SCC Historic Environment Team should be consulted. Reference should also be made to the joint English Heritage and Department of Transport volume entitled ‘Streets for All: West Midlands’ and where appropriate to the SCC ‘Conservation in the Highways’ document559.

558 Ibid. 559 Staffordshire County Council. 2011. Web: http://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/environment/eLand/HistoricEnvironment/BuiltEnvironment/Co nservationintheHighwayGuidanceDocument2011.pdf

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4.2 HUCA 2: St Mary’s Church, Stafford © Crown copyright and database rights 2011 Ordnance Survey 100019422

Map 16: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.2.1 Statement of heritage significance

This character area probably lay at the centre of the Saxon Burh and an early church, St Bertelin’s, was excavated here during the 1950s. The Church had stood to the rear of the later St Mary’s until the early 19th century, but the archaeological excavations proved that it had been a religious site since at least the period of the Burh (founded 913AD) if not earlier560 (cf. 2.3.3 and 2.4.4). The church was used as a guild chapel in the later medieval period and was demolished in 1801. The footprint of the church survives as a Grade II listed structure (plate 4).

The buildings of the Grade I listed St Mary’s Church date to the early 13th century. However, St Bertelin’s probably represents the site of the earliest church which was excavated in the 1950s (cf. plate 4). The first phase was probably of timber and is likely to have been 10th century in date; it was probably replaced by a stone church in the early 11th century (cf. 2.4.4)561.

560 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00774 561 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08340

105 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

Plate 4: Footprint of St Bertelin’s Church

The entire HUCA formed the enclave of a college which had been founded by 1086 when Domesday Book was compiled. Several buildings are known from documentary records to have been associated with the college during the medieval period, as well as the churches of St Bertelin’s and St Mary’s. These included a tithe barn in the area of St Mary’s Grove and a priest’s house which stood to the south of the zone562.

Archaeological evidence from the zone includes a series of pits dated to between the 10th and 14th century reaffirming activity in this zone from the period of the burh into the medieval period.

4.2.2 Built Character

The historic built environment of the zone contributes strongly to the historic character (cf. map 16). The Grade I Listed St Mary’s Church is constructed of dressed stone and the earliest fabric dates to the 13th century although there are later alterations563. The building was partially rebuilt in the mid 19th century under the architect Sir Gilbert Scott.

Other than the church itself there are a further six Grade II listed buildings and two Grade II listed burial monuments within the HUCA. On the north side of the churchyard, numbers 5 to 8 St Mary’s Grove, mostly appear to date to the mid 18th century. Number 5 is a three storey brick built property of circa 1760, whilst number 6 dates to circa 1750 and has two storeys of roughcast brick. Numbers 7 and 8 appear to date to circa 1740 although they were originally built as a pair of houses of brick and timber framing dating to circa 1685. It is

562 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00773 & PRN 00771 563 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08340

106 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment possible that the other two properties may also have earlier origins. These buildings still appear to post date the Dissolution of the college in 1548 and it is possible that they replaced earlier college buildings.

To the south of the church lies the Grade II listed former school and the associated master’s house. Both of the structures were built by Sir Gilbert Scott in 1856 and like the church are built in dressed stone564. The complex was converted into a shopping centre in 1990. This property lies along a street called St Mary’s Grove which is probably named after a former gate which would have enclosed the close around St Mary’s Church565.

4.2.3 Heritage Values

Evidential value: The fact that this HUCA has lain at the spiritual High heart of the town since the Early Medieval period has been proven by a series of archaeological excavations in the area. There is the potential for buildings associated with the medieval collegiate church to also survive within the HUCA as buried remains. Consequently there is a high potential for further archaeological deposits to be encountered within the HUCA, which will contribute to our understanding of the development of the town and the church site. The extant historic buildings also have the potential to retain earlier fabric relating to their origins and function and so may further inform our understanding of the development of the town. Historical value: The legible heritage assets dominate the HUCA High with the Grade I listed church lying at the centre. The extant street pattern is also likely to have its origins in the medieval period and have been closely related to activities within the enclosed religious site. There are historical and architectural associations between the Grade I church and the 19th century Grade II listed former school buildings. Aesthetic value: The HUCA is characterised by the extant St Mary’s High church, the remains of St Bertelin’s chapel and its graveyard with Listed monument. The former school is also aesthetically closely associated with the rebuilding of the church; both being by the architect Sir Gilbert Scott. The importance of the HUCA to the wider townscape has consequently been acknowledged in the designation of the Stafford Town Conservation Area. Communal value: The Church is a focal point within the townscape High as well as a place which brings people together for spiritual worship. St Mary’s Churchyard provides an area of public open space within the town centre. The former school buildings are in retail use creating an interaction with the community/public. There is the potential for heritage interpretation to enable a greater appreciation and understanding of the history of the town for the benefit of the community and visitors. Access to and an understanding of the heritage assets of the HUCA could be enhanced through interpretation for the public benefit. This may support potential sustainable tourism opportunities and offer opportunities for sustainable regeneration of the urban core.

564 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08303 and PRN 14101 565 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00772

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4.2.3 Recommendations

The heritage significance and values have identified the HUCA as being of particular importance to the history of Stafford in its extant historic buildings and the archaeological potential.

Where alterations or changes are proposed to the buildings, whether Listed or not, within the Conservation Area the applicant should refer to the Stafford Conservation Area Appraisal and consultation with the Stafford Borough Conservation Officer should take place in the first instance567. Any works on or within the vicinity of the Grade I Listed Building should consult English Heritage during the pre-planning stage. All of the designated heritage assets and their settings are covered under para. 132 of NPPF568.

Individual properties could be considered for local listing to acknowledge their contribution to the local sense of place or their place in the town’s history in line with the recent English Heritage guidance document entitled ‘Good practice for local heritage listing’ (2012)569.

There is a high potential for below ground archaeological deposits to survive within the HUCA There is also the potential for the historic buildings to retain architectural elements which could inform their origins and function. Where development may result in the loss of these heritage assets (whether wholly or in part) archaeological evaluation and/or mitigation may be required to record and advance

566 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 567 The Conservation Area Appraisal is accessible online at http://www.staffordbc.gov.uk/live/Documents/Forward%20Planning/Conservation/Stafford- Conservation-Area-Appraisal.pdf 568 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. 569 English Heritage 2012: http://www.helm.org.uk/guidance-library/good-practice-local- heritage-listing/

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the understanding of their significance; this is supported in para. 128 of NPPF570.

570 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 571 Staffordshire County Council. 2011. Web: http://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/environment/eLand/HistoricEnvironment/BuiltEnvironment/Co nservationintheHighwayGuidanceDocument2011.pdf

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4.3 HUCA 3: West of Gaolgate Street and Broadeye

Map 17: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.3.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character

The character area has undergone considerable re-development during the late 20th century (HCTs ‘Commercial and/or Administrative’, ‘Large-Scale Commercial or Industrial Sites’, ‘Major Road Scheme’ and ‘Public Buildings’ on map 17). Stafford College (HCT ‘Educational Facility’) dominates the south western part of the area, which expanded considerably during the late 20th century. However, the earliest college building is the Grade II listed Tenterbanks Buildings572. The shell of the building was completed in 1937 and it was used as an army hospital during the war, before being finally completed in 1946. A Grade II listed building, of late 19th century date, stands on Earl Street. It was originally built as a Technical School, but was later used as offices and by the early 21st century had been converted to a public

572 Staffordshire HER: PRN 14104

110 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment house and flats573. Part of the Stafford Town Conservation Area lies within the HUCA (cf. map 13).

The eastern half of the character area is dominated by late 20th century purpose-built shops fronting onto Gaolgate on Street (HCT ‘Commercial and/or Administrative’ on map 17). This phase of redevelopment has obliterated the medieval burgage plot layout and replaced earlier buildings of probable medieval origin. However, earlier plan form evidence does survive within the HUCA to the rear of the late 20th century shopping development, facing onto Mount Street, where at least post medieval property boundaries survive (HCT ‘Irregular Historic Plots on map 17). The extant historic buildings in this area include two Grade II listed buildings and whilst both appear to date to c.1810 number 2 Mount Street retains a 17th century wing to the rear574. A boot and shoe manufactory built by the late 19th century also survives on Mount Street, although little further is currently known about its history575. The other surviving early industrial building within the HUCA is the Grade II Listed Broadeye Windmill, which dates from the 18th century (cf. 2.7.5.2).

Despite the extensive redevelopment which has altered the character of the historic plot boundaries there has been little change to the medieval street pattern within the HUCA. The exceptions to this are the road roundabout to the west (HCT ‘Major Road Scheme’ on map 17) and the removal of Cherry Street in the late 20th century to facilitate expansion to Stafford College.

The 17th century maps of the town indicate the densest development within the HUCA, other than that fronting onto Gaolgate Street, occurred along Mount Street, Crabbery Street, Chapel Street and Earl Street. Across the remaining area only dispersed settlement is indicated. The locations of archaeological interventions which have found evidence for medieval activity have tended to concentrate within those streets where the greatest population density is indicated on the 17th century maps. The most unequivocal evidence for medieval settlement, however, was a series of post holes and beams slots indicating a building (or series of buildings) dating to between 12th and 15th centuries located in Earl Street576. Rubbish pits and evidence for probable late medieval industrial activity has been found at Broad Street and a 13th/14th century malting oven at Bull Hill577.

It is currently unclear to what extent there was medieval settlement across the remainder of the HUCA although a rescue excavation in 1969 on Tenterbanks identified post holes and beam slots suggesting a building of probable 13th century to post medieval date578. It is possible that there was de-population in this area during the medieval period or that settlement had always been

573 Staffordshire HER: PRN 14079; P. McKnight pers. comm.. 574 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08194 and PRN 08318 575 Ordnance Survey 1:500 map 1880 576 Staffordshire HER: PRN 51590 577 Staffordshire HER: PRN 05528 and PRN 51597 578 Staffordshire HER: PRN 03173

111 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment dispersed with the open spaces being given over to market gardening activities or pasture.

However, it is likely that the royal castle of Stafford stood in the vicinity of Broadeye, possibly in the area of the road roundabout (HCT ‘Major Road Scheme’ on map 17)579. Early medieval and medieval features, principally ditches and pits have been recorded in excavations within Stafford College. One ditch feature of medieval date has been interpreted as forming part of the defences of the outer bailey of the castle580. This ditch was cut on the same alignment as four early medieval ditches. The orientation of the early medieval ditches suggested that they were enclosing a feature to the north east of the town, possibly a fortified residence, the site on which the castle was later established581.

The line of the medieval town defences also coincides with the boundary of the HUCA and there is the potential for below ground deposits associated with this feature to survive. The boundary of the burh, whose extent is currently unknown, may also partly lie within the HUCA.

The eastern half of the character area is believed to have lain within the Saxon burh (cf. 2.4.1). The most substantial feature excavated within this area are the ovens or kilns lying to the north of St Mary’s Grove and which have been dated to the pre-burh settlement, although the results of dating analysis has recently been called into question with suggestions that they are contemporary with the burh582. However, an earlier phase of activity was also identified on this site in the form of two or three probable granaries of Iron Age date. Other evidence for Saxon activity has been identified in areas beyond either of the hypothesised limits of the burh (cf. map 4 and map 5) particularly to the north where a ditch and a series of pits were excavated583.

4.3.2 Heritage Values

Evidential value: Previous archaeological work within the HUCA High has been successful in locating well preserved deposits from the prehistoric period onwards. Consequently there is a high potential for further deposits to survive across the HUCA. There is also a high potential for palaeo-environmental data to survive within the historic core. The surviving street pattern is also of at least medieval, if not earlier date. Extant historic buildings also have the potential to retain earlier fabric relating to their origins and function, particularly the former boot and shoe manufactory, which may further inform our understanding of the social and economic history of the town. Historical value: The legible heritage assets include designated and Medium undesignated historic buildings as well as the street pattern and the Stafford Town Centre Conservation Area. These heritage assets make a positive contribution to the wider townscape despite

579 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00766 580 Cuttler et al 2009: 79 581 Ibid: 75-6 582 Carver pers.comm. 583 Staffordshire HER: PRN 51596 and PRN 51593

112 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment redevelopment to the north. Aesthetic value: Parts of the HUCA lies within the Stafford Town Medium Centre Conservation Area which highlights its importance to the historic and local character of the town (cf. map 13). The integrity of the historic character in the northern portion of the HUCA has been impacted by late 20th century redevelopment. However, the survival of the most of the medieval street pattern provides an enduring historic framework to the built environment. Communal value: The HUCA forms part of the commercial core of Medium Stafford and some historic buildings are accessible to the public. There is the potential for heritage interpretation to enable a greater appreciation and understanding of the history of the town for the benefit of the community and visitors. Access to and an understanding of the heritage assets of the HUCA could be enhanced through interpretation for public benefit. This may support potential sustainable tourism opportunities and offer opportunities for sustainable regeneration of the urban core.

4.3.3 Recommendations

The heritage significance and values have recognised the contribution of heritage assets, both in the built environment and as below ground archaeology, to an understanding of Stafford’s history as well as to its sense of place. The conservation and enhancement of the heritage assets of the HUCA would contribute significantly to the local character for the benefit of both the community and visitors.

Where alterations or changes are proposed to all of the listed buildings and to unlisted buildings/structures within the Conservation Area, the applicant should refer to the Stafford Conservation Area Appraisal and consultation with the Stafford Borough Conservation Officer should

584 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 585 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf

113 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

take place in the first instance586. All of the designated heritage assets and their settings are covered under para. 132 of NPPF587.

There is a particularly high potential for below ground archaeological deposits to survive across the entire HUCA, as has been shown by previous works. There is also the potential for historic buildings (designated or undesignated) to retain earlier architectural elements which could inform their origins, development and function. Where development may result in the loss of these heritage assets (whether wholly or in part) archaeological evaluation and/or mitigation may be required to record and advance the understanding of their significance; this is supported in para. 128 of NPPF588.

586 The Conservation Area Appraisal is accessible online at http://www.staffordbc.gov.uk/live/Documents/Forward%20Planning/Conservation/Stafford- Conservation-Area-Appraisal.pdf

587 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 588 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 589 Staffordshire County Council. 2011. Web: http://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/environment/eLand/HistoricEnvironment/BuiltEnvironment/Co nservationintheHighwayGuidanceDocument2011.pdf

114 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.4 HUCA 4: South east of Queensway

Map 18: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.4.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character

The character area lies to the south east of the town centre, beyond the line of the medieval town wall. The Scheduled Monument of East Gate lies on the western edge of the town, just within the HUCA590. Part of the town wall also survives in the western portion of the HUCA although it was moved here in 1939 from its original position as part of a road widening scheme. However, there remains the potential for below ground deposits to survive associated, not only with the Scheduled East Gate, but also the connecting defences591.

The HUCA is dominated by changes in the townscape which mostly date to the late 20th century. The road system was upgraded to form part of the ring road constructed around the town centre in the mid 1970s and this dominates a substantial portion of the area (HCT ‘Major Road Scheme’ on map 18). The alterations to the road have probably been responsible for attracting the development of large-scale buildings and car parks including the supermarket, former multi-storey car park and the Borough Council Offices during the late 20th and early 21st century (cf. ‘Large-Scale Commercial or Industrial Site’, ‘Other Non-Residential Development’ and ‘Public Buildings’ on map 18). The large leisure centre on Lammascote Road was built in the early 21st century, whilst the HCT ‘Vacant Plot’ is the site of a mid 20th century leisure centre; the site is currently (March 2012) awaiting redevelopment. The former school on

590 English Heritage: SM 11; Staffordshire HER: PRN 00026 591 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00767

115 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

Riverway was built in 1939, but was used as council offices between circa 1994 and December 2011.

The river Sow bisects the character area on a roughly east-west alignment. The course of the river was altered as part of a wider drainage scheme around Stafford in the mid 19th century. The river was made navigable from the east as far as Green Bridge where a coal wharf was constructed to supply fuel to the town592. A disused multi-storey car park now stands on the site of the coal wharf (map 18). Even in the 19th century the HUCA was largely on the periphery of the settlement; this was confirmed during an archaeological excavation on the supermarket site where 19th century sewage works and a bottle dump was recorded593.

The presence of the river was responsible for the earlier wetland character of the area (cf. map 2 and HCT ‘Floodplain marshes’ on map 4). The eastern route out of the town, the Lammascote Road, is believed to have been a causeway over the floodplain marshes; by the medieval period it probably formed the dam to King’s Pool to the north (cf. HUCA 5 and 2.5.5.5). There is a hypothesis that this route had its origins in the prehistoric period (cf. 2.1) and a possible medieval causeway was excavated in the area of the East Gate594. Environmental samples were taken from the supermarket site which provided evidence for a probable medieval flax and hemp processing industry, which was reliant upon waterlogged conditions. This evidence also provided information regarding the prehistoric landscape around the town (cf. 2.1).

The site of Eastgate Mill also probably lies within the HUCA as shown on the sketch plan of the town (circa 1600). Documentary evidence suggests that the mill existed between the late 12th and the early 17th century (cf. 2.5.5.3)

There is archaeological evidence for prehistoric activity to the north of the River Sow, recovered as part of the supermarket development. This came in the form of Iron Age timbers which have been radio carbon dated to 390BC to 80BC. Their function has not been positively identified, but it has been suggested that they may have formed part of a bridge or retaining wall along the river bank595.

The area of the road roundabout to the south of the character area may have fallen within or towards the edge of the medieval suburb of Forebridge (cf. map 7).

592 Staffordshire HER: PRN 50014 593 Staffordshire HER: PRN 05506 594 Staffordshire HER: PRN 03175 595 Staffordshire HER: PRN 52515

116 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.4.2 Heritage Values

Evidential value: There remains the potential for archaeological High deposits to survive within the HUCA as has been shown in previous interventions particularly in the vicinity of the River Sow, the medieval suburb of Forebridge and around East Gate. There is also the potential for elements of the medieval mill and palaeoenvironmental remains to survive particularly within the area of former (and current) marshland. Historical value: The only legible heritage asset is the Scheduled Low and Grade II Listed town wall. Aesthetic value: The HUCA has seen considerable alteration during Low the late 20th century, although parts of it lie adjacent (and even within) the Stafford Town Conservation Area. Communal value: From a heritage perspective there is little of Low value.

4.4.3 Recommendations

The heritage significance and values has particularly highlighted the potential for below ground archaeological deposits to survive.

Where alterations or changes are proposed which may impact upon Stafford Town Conservation Area and its setting, the applicant should refer to the Stafford Conservation Area Appraisal and consultation with the Stafford Borough Conservation Officer should take place in the first instance597. Any works on or within the vicinity of the Scheduled Monument should consult English Heritage during the pre-planning stage. All of the designated heritage assets and their settings are covered under para. 132 of NPPF598.

There is a high potential for below ground archaeological deposits and palaeoenvironmental remains to survive within the HUCA, as has been shown by previous works. There is also the potential for elements of the medieval mill site to survive within the HUCA. Where development may result in the loss of these heritage assets (whether wholly or in part) archaeological evaluation and/or mitigation may be required to

596 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 597 The Conservation Area Appraisal is accessible online at http://www.staffordbc.gov.uk/live/Documents/Forward%20Planning/Conservation/Stafford- Conservation-Area-Appraisal.pdf 598 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf

117 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

record and advance the understanding of their significance; this is supported in para. 128 of NPPF599.

599 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 600 Staffordshire County Council. 2011. Web: http://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/environment/eLand/HistoricEnvironment/BuiltEnvironment/Co nservationintheHighwayGuidanceDocument2011.pdf

118 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

HUCA 5: King’s Pool and Kingsmead Marsh

Map 19: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.5.1 Statement of heritage significance

The character area lies to the north east of the town centre and comprises the Kingsmead Marsh wetland nature reserve, an area of 19th century drained wetlands and two mid/late 20th century car parks (HCT ‘Floodplain Marshes’, ‘Drained Wetlands’ and ‘Open Air Car Park’ on map 19). The nature reserve, which lies to the east, falls within the St George’s Hospital Conservation Area. In the medieval period this area formed the King’s Pool, a fishpond which had been created by the 12th/13th century601. Lammascote Road probably runs along the pool dam; by the late 12th century it appears to have also been used to power a watermill (cf. HUCA 4)

Mapping evidence suggests that King’s Pool had been drained by the late 16th century602. The extent to which the drainage system shown on the sketch plan of circa 1600 survives is currently unknown. It may have been re-laid as part of the drainage works carried out in the mid 19th century (cf. 2.7.5.3). Late 19th century mapping, particularly the 1:500 OS map of circa 1880, suggests that this area had been used as a water meadow (cf. 2.7.5.3).

Prior to the creation of the pool this area had formed marshland which encompassed the town on its eastern, western and southern edges (cf. map 2 and map 4). Environmental information has been extracted from this area which provided evidence of land use in the vicinity of the marsh from the Mesolithic to the late Roman period. Marsh deposits were also revealed in an

601 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00785 602 Anon. circa 1600 map

119 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment excavation on North Walls, buried beneath later garden soils and demolition layers603.

The line of the medieval town wall is indicated on 17th century maps as probably running across the western extent of the HUCA where the HCTs ‘Suburban Redevelopment or Infill’ and ‘Other Non-Residential Develop’ are shown on map 16. This area appears to have been developed by the late 18th century although the earliest of the extant buildings appear to date to the early 20th century. The peripheral location of this area, lying on the edge of the town may offer opportunities for the survival of evidence for industrial activity from the medieval period onwards.

4.5.2 Heritage Values

Evidential value: There is a high potential for palaeo-environmental High evidence to survive within the HUCA, as has been shown by previous work. There is also the potential for below ground archaeological deposits to survive associated with historic plots along North Walls, previous industrial activity and for the remains of the medieval town defences. Historical value: There are few legible heritage assets although the Low Kingsmead Marshes attests to the origins of this landscape as an area of floodplain marshland. Aesthetic value: The area of the extant floodplain marshes, Medium Kingsmead Marshes Nature Reserve, has been acknowledged as contributing to the townscape by its inclusion in the St George’s Hospital Conservation Area. Communal value: The Kingsmead Marshes Nature Reserve is Medium publically accessible. An interpretation of the history of the landscape of this area of Stafford, from the prehistoric period onwards, would improve the community and visitors’ understanding of environmental change and the role of the HUCA in the town’s history.

4.5.3 Recommendations

The heritage significance and values has identified the importance of the potential for the survival of below ground archaeological deposits. The significance of the marshland to the townscape has been acknowledged in its inclusion in the St George’s Conservation Area.

Where alterations or changes are proposed within that portion of the HUCA lying within or adjacent to the St George’s Hospital Conservation Area, the applicant should consult with the Stafford Borough Conservation Officer in the first instance604. All of the

603 Staffordshire HER: PRN 03179 604 The Conservation Area Appraisal is accessible online at http://www.staffordbc.gov.uk/live/Documents/Forward%20Planning/Conservation/Stafford- Conservation-Area-Appraisal.pdf

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designated heritage assets and their settings are covered under para. 132 of NPPF605.

There is a high potential for below ground archaeological and palaeoenvironmental deposits to survive within the HUCA. Where development may result in the loss of these heritage assets (whether wholly or in part) archaeological evaluation and/or mitigation may be required to record and advance the understanding of their significance; this is supported in para. 128 of NPPF606.

605 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 606 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf

121 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.6 HUCA 6: St George’s Hospital & Stafford Prison

Map 20: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.6.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character

The character area is dominated by the historic buildings associated with St George’s Hospital and Stafford Prison; many of which are listed. The Stafford – St George’s Hospital Conservation Area (092) also covers most of the HUCA (map 13). The area lying outside of the Conservation Area, in the south eastern portion, forms further extant hospital buildings which developed from the mid 20th century onwards.

The earliest prison building is the Grade II listed three storeyed brick central prison block built between 1787 and 1793 (cf. map 20 and 2.7.4.1). The Grade II listed north and west high perimeter walls are contemporary with this building607. It was extended from the early 19th century onwards and three further Grade II listed buildings survive. All three were designed by the architect Joseph Potter Junior. The earliest of his buildings, dated 1832-3 is the three storey cell block which is known as ‘The Crescent’608. The plan form of this building reflects the architectural pretensions of the time and is the only prison block designed as a crescent to survive nationally609. The other two cell blocks date to the circa 1840 and the early 1850s respectively. Both are of a similar plan being brick built in a ‘T’ shape, but one is of three storeys and

607 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08246 and PRN 08250 608 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08249 609 Brodie et al 2002: 74

122 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment the other four storeys610. The architectural phases of the prison reflect the philosophies and requirements of the prison reform legislation that was passed during the late 18th and 19th centuries (cf. 2.7.4.1).

St George’s Hospital was probably constructed upon part of one of the arable open fields known as Coton Field, which was not enclosed until after 1880 (cf. map 20; 2.5.5.2 and 2.7.5.3). The Grade II listed main range of St George's Hospital, was built in 1818 as the county asylum and is likely to be one of the earliest surviving asylums in the country611 (cf. 2.7.4.2). Its red-brick Georgian façade is reminiscent of a large country house, a deliberate design feature (and part of patient therapy) to make it not look like an institution in contrast to the style of the earlier prison. The landscaping associated with the hospital largely survives and several of the farm buildings associated with Asylum Farm survived until the early 21st century. The gardens and the farm were principally developed also as part of the therapy for patients with ‘work’ and ‘usefulness’ an underlying ethos in patient care; the farm also provided a degree of self-sustainability. As such both the farm and gardens too were part of the programme of patient therapy for the institution.

The hospital continued to expand throughout the 19th century and most of the buildings still survive including a sanitary ward (cf. map 20)612. It was renamed St George’s hospital in 1940. The historic buildings of St George’s ceased to be used as a hospital in 1994.

4.6.2 Heritage Values

Evidential value: Despite 20th century redevelopment within the Medium grounds of St George’s Hospital there remains the potential for features relating to its landscaping, and to former hospital buildings including Asylum Farm, to survive. The HUCA otherwise lay within Coton Field which had formed part of the agricultural economy from the medieval period onwards. Historical value: The legible historic buildings dominate the HUCA; High some of the landscaping of the Hospital also survives. Both the prison and the hospital were largely contemporary in date and buildings were constructed as large impressive public buildings. Consequently these architect designed buildings reflected the contemporary philosophy, and in the case of the prison the changing legislation and prison reform ethos regarding the welfare, improvement and the rehabilitation of inmates. However, the architecture was also designed, particularly in the case of the hospital, but possibly also in the prison block known as ‘The Crescent’, as a statement of the philanthropic values of the county town. Aesthetic value: The integrity of the historic character is well High preserved, despite the construction of further buildings in the 20th century. The character of the HUCA is enhanced by the fact that these buildings were constructed on a large-scale and are overall

610 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08247 and PRN 08248 611 Staffordshire HER: PRN 05566 612 Staffordshire HER: PRN MST 14298

123 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment contemporary in date. The importance of these parts of the HUCA to the history and local character of Stafford has been recognised in the designation of the St George’s Conservation Area. Communal value: The importance of these institutions to an Medium understanding of the social history of the town could be made accessible to the community and visitors through interpretation. However, the buildings themselves are not publically accessible.

4.6.3 Recommendations

The heritage significance and values has identified the importance of the historic buildings of both complexes, but also the surviving landscaping of St George’s Hospital. Their contribution to the townscape of Stafford has been acknowledged in the listing of the key buildings and the designation of the St George’s Conservation Area.

A statement of significance (Heritage Statement) will be required to assess the impact of any proposed development upon the historic environment as part of any planning application to be made within this HUCA (cf. para. 128 of NPPF)613.

The designation of the ‘The Crescent’ as a Grade II Listed building should be re-evaluated in the light of it being the only surviving prison block of its type.

Where alterations or changes are proposed to the buildings, whether Listed or not, within the Conservation Area the applicant consultation with the Stafford Borough Conservation Officer should take place in the first instance. All of the designated heritage assets and their settings are covered under para. 132 of NPPF615.

Change within the HUCA should be sympathetic to its historic character. In particular the promotion of the re-use of historic buildings to contribute to sustainable development is recommended (paras. 126 and 131 of NPFF). High quality design which is sympathetic to the historic built fabric is the key to retaining the local character of the area as identified in Bullet Point 4 of para. 17 (Core planning principles) and Bullet Point 4 of para. 58 in NPPF.

613 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 614 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 615 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf

124 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

There is a moderate potential for below ground archaeological deposits to survive within the HUCA, particularly relating to the development of St George’s Hospital. There is also the potential for the historic buildings to retain earlier architectural elements which could inform their origins, development and function. Where development may result in the loss of these heritage assets (whether wholly or in part) archaeological evaluation and/or mitigation may be required to record and advance the understanding of their significance; this is supported in para. 128 of NPPF616.

616 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 617 Staffordshire County Council. 2011. Web: http://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/environment/eLand/HistoricEnvironment/BuiltEnvironment/Co nservationintheHighwayGuidanceDocument2011.pdf

125 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.7 HUCA 7: North of Stafford

Map 21: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.7.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character

The character area incorporates an area of early suburban expansion, which had probably begun by the late 12th century at Foregate (HCT ‘Suburb’ on map 7). These earliest suburbs were located along the primary northern route out of Stafford, Foregate Street, however, much of this area has been redeveloped during the mid to late 20th century (HCTs ‘Major Road Scheme’ and ‘Suburban Redevelopment and Infill’ on map 21). Despite this redevelopment two listed buildings survive. The Grade II listed 62 and 63

126 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

Foregate Street has late 17th century origins and is evidence of the earlier origins of this area618. The Grade II* Friends Meeting House is located closer to the town off Foregate Street and was built in 1730 although the cemetery had probably been established in the 17th century (cf. 2.7.6.2)619. These historic buildings are incorporated into the Foregate Street Conservation Area.

Currently little archaeological work has been carried out to establish the origins and nature of the medieval suburb and how it developed throughout the post medieval period. Maps created in the 17th century appear to suggest that the suburb extended as far as the site of the late 13th century Franciscan Friary, which lay to the north of St Patrick’s Street620. It appears that the friary had been replaced by a house called Grey Friars by c. 1610 (cf. 2.6.6.3). The site of the northern town gate also lies within the HUCA; part of it is believed to have been seen during sewerage works in 1969 (cf. 2.5.1). There is the potential, therefore, that more of the gate and the town defences may survive as below ground deposits in the area of HCT ‘Major Road Scheme’ on map 21.

The majority of the HUCA is dominated by later suburban expansion which had its origins in the early and mid 19th century (cf. 2.7.3.2). Development in this area was initially stimulated by the construction of several new roads during the early 19th century; notably Gaol Road and Gaol Square (cf. 2.7.3.2). The growing importance of the manufacture of boots and shoes in the town, along with associated industries further stimulated development from the mid 19th century onwards (cf. 2.7.3.2 and 2.7.5.4) Consequently, the built character of much of the HUCA continues to be dominated by 19th and early 20th century terraced houses (HCT ‘Suburb – Terraces’ on map 21).

Several contemporary factories survive within this 19th century expansion, many of which were involved either directly or indirectly with the shoe industry (including HCT ‘Industrial’ which lies Foregate Street and Gaol Road on map 21).621 The number of known shoe factories is shown on map 10; of these around 14 appear to survive. However, further smaller factories and workshops may also survive such as the possible former shoe factory standing at Four Crosses (cf. map 21)622. Other buildings from related industries also existed within the HUCA, some of which may also survive. A history of the Stafford Box building on Wogan Street identified its origins as a shoe factory built in 1862, but also that the large property, 159 Marston Road (or Wogan House) had been the home of the owner (cf. 2.7.5.4 and map 21). An historical and archaeological survey of the whole area could potentially identify further associations between building types. Such work would comprehensively enhance the current understanding of the impact of this industry within the townscape and its influence on the housing for its workers.

618 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08242 619 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08244 and PRN 03637 620 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00776 621 Three noted factories on the Staffordshire HER: PRN 50361, PRN 50362 and PRN 50363 622 Staffordshire HER: PRN 50362

127 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

It would also establish to what extent this continues to contribute to the local character of the area.

Suburban expansion also led to the construction of buildings aimed to support the educational and spiritual welfare of the inhabitants. Several of these buildings have been demolished; including Christ Church which was built as a chapel of ease with a graveyard in the late 1830s623. Two schools which lay within the Christ Church district have also been demolished624. The girls and infants school lay adjacent to the church in Gaol Street. It had been established as a mixed National School in 1825. A new boys school was opened in Rowley Street in 1873; this building was demolished circa 2007625. Those that survive include a former Baptist Chapel, now a Masonic Hall built on Gaol Square in 1848626. A Wesleyan Chapel, dated 1909, with a Sunday School of circa 1886, survive in Rowley Street627. The Northfields Infants School, on Stone Road in the northern portion of the HUCA was opened in 1909628.

Despite the generally good preservation of terraces, industrial buildings and the associated street pattern there have been some areas of substantial redevelopment during the late 20th century (HCT ‘Suburban Redevelopment or Infill’ on map 21). Housing development to the far north of the HUCA (HCT ‘Suburb’ on map 21) dates to the mid 20th century. This also covers the redevelopment of the union workhouse which had been established on what had been the edge of Stafford in 1837-8629.

4.7.2 Heritage Values

Evidential value: There is the potential for the remains of the High medieval town defences to survive, as has been shown during previous investigations. There is also the potential, despite subsequent redevelopment, for the survival of below ground archaeological deposits to survive associated with medieval suburban activity along Foregate Street and the site of the Friary. There is also the potential for the historic buildings of the HUCA, especially within the area of 19th century industrial and housing development, to retain architectural and structural detailing which would inform our understanding of those aspects of Stafford’s social and economic history. Historical value: The legible heritage assets continue to dominate High the area of 19th century industrial suburbs despite some redevelopment. The extant street pattern, housing and former shoe factories, as well as any other related industrial buildings, are a legible reminder of the importance of this industry to the economic success of Stafford during the 19th and into the 20th century.

623 Staffordshire HER: PRN 03147 and PRN 54470 624 Staffordshire HER: PRN 54469 625 Staffordshire HER: PRN 51589 626 Staffordshire HER: PRN 53041 627 Staffordshire HER: PRN 54471 and PRN 54472 628 Staffordshire HER: PRN 54473 629 Staffordshire HER: PRN 52863

128 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

Aesthetic value: Very few of the heritage assets are covered by High national designations with the exception of the Grade II* Friends Meeting House and the three Grade II Listed properties in Foregate. However, it is clear that the areas defined as HCT ‘Suburb – Terraces’ and some of the ‘Industrial’ areas, make a significant contribution to the local character and the sense of place. Some redevelopment of the area and of individual buildings has occurred, but the overall integrity of the historic character of this 19th century industrial quarter can still be easily read within the townscape. Communal value: The majority of the HUCA is still industrial or Medium domestic in nature, although some of the former factories are in commercial use allowing some limited public access. The importance of this area to an understanding of the social history of the town could be made accessible to the community and visitors through interpretation to augment potential sustainable tourism opportunities.

4.7.3 Recommendations

The heritage significance and values sections have identified the importance of the heritage assets to both the extant townscape, and its local character, as well as to an understanding of the social and economic history of the town.

Where alterations or changes are proposed to the buildings, whether Listed or not, within the Foregate Street Conservation Area the applicant should consult with the Stafford Borough Conservation Officer should take place in the first instance. Any works on or within the vicinity of the Grade II* Listed Buildings should consult English Heritage during the pre-planning stage. All of the designated heritage assets and their settings are covered under para. 132 of NPPF631.

The sympathetic restoration or enhancement of the historic buildings, both Listed and unlisted, would strengthen the historic character and the quality of the wider townscape for the benefit of this and future generations (Bullet Point 10 of para 17 (Core planning principles) also paras. 126 and 131 of NPPF)632.

An historic and architectural survey of the 19th century industrial suburbs would enhance our understanding of the history and development of this area and the significance and relationship of what survives. This could inform the potential for further designation of

630 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 631 Ibid. 632 Ibid.

129 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

heritage assets including the formation of a Conservation Area in the most complete parts to acknowledge the importance of the industry to Stafford’s history and to secure historic character of the area for the local inhabitants, visitors and future generations. Locally important buildings could be considered for local listing in line with the recent English Heritage guidance document entitled ‘Good practice for local heritage listing’ (2012)633.

There is a high potential for below ground archaeological deposits to survive along Foregate Street and associated with the town defences. There is also the potential for the historic buildings to retain important architectural elements which could inform their origins, development and function. Where development may result in the loss of these heritage assets (whether wholly or in part) archaeological evaluation and/or mitigation may be required to record and advance the understanding of their significance; this is supported in para. 128 of NPPF634.

633 English Heritage 2012: http://www.helm.org.uk/guidance-library/good-practice-local- heritage-listing/ 634 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 635 Staffordshire County Council. 2011. Web: http://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/environment/eLand/HistoricEnvironment/BuiltEnvironment/Co nservationintheHighwayGuidanceDocument2011.pdf

130 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

131 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.8 HUCA 8: Coton Field

Map 22: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.8.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character

The HUCA represents the expansion of suburban development in a north easterly direction beyond the former lunatic asylum (cf. map 11 and HUCA 6) in the final two decades of the 19th century. This involved the insertion of new streets, the first of which was Corporation Street and the southern part of Oxford Street (map 22). These streets cut across part of the medieval open field known as Coton Field (cf. 2.5.5.2 and 2.6.5.2 and 2.7.5.3). Terraced houses developed incrementally across the character area, being constructed by individual builders, from the late 19th century onwards (cf. HCT ‘Suburb – Terraces’ on map 22). The differing architectural detailing visible on the terraced houses is an indicator of the piecemeal nature of this development.

132 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

The majority of the terraced houses across the HUCA are set in small front gardens with low garden walls with a gate. Oxford Gardens, and the terraced housing which survives on its south eastern side, was laid out in the early 20th century probably as a result of the Lotus Shoe factory relocating to a site between the Sandon Road and Oxford Gardens in 1903636. The terraced houses in this street were probably built for the skilled workers and foremen. The Lotus factory operated from this site until 1998 (cf. 2.8.4.3). The site was re-developed for housing in the early 21st century (HCT ‘Suburban Re- development or Infill’ on map 22).

Tithe Barn Road to the south east of the HUCA may have originated as a trackway to provide access into Coton Field, and consequently may have medieval origins. Whilst the extant road largely follows the alignment of the original trackway it was straightened and widened in the early 20th century when further terraced houses were laid out along either side. Two new streets, John Street and Cambridge Street, were also created at this time.

The remaining suburban development (HCT ‘Suburb’ on map 22) was constructed in the early and mid 20th century. The short, straight streets around Smallman Street were probably constructed around the time of the First World War, but the housing may have only been completed in the years after 1918. A single row of traditional terraces on the east side of Cambridge Street may suggest that originally the streets were laid out with this type of development in mind. However, by the time the houses were built the philosophy governing domestic architecture had changed and was increasingly influenced by the ‘Garden City Movement’ (cf. 2.8.1). Consequently the majority of properties in this area, laid out in short terraces of four houses, are set well back off the road and within larger gardens than the earlier houses. The later suburbs to the south east are similarly set within large gardens, but there are also semi-detached properties as well as the shorter terraces. Even the names of the roads reflect the changing priorities for domestic architecture with ‘avenues’ replacing streets and tree planting taking place to line new roads. These elements were undoubtedly part of the development plan for the area with improved environmental conditions for residents.

Coton Field had belonged to the manor of Coton, but was leased to Stafford from 1455. The Coton Field Allotments were established in the late 19th century after the commoner’s rights to the open field were extinguished under the Stafford Corporation Act (1880). This ultimately enabled the suburban expansion, but a large area of allotment gardens, which had their origins in the passing of this Act, survive within the HUCA (cf. HCT ‘Market Gardens or Allotments’ on map 22).

636 Greenslade et al 1979: 218

133 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.8.2 Heritage Values

Evidential value: The HUCA lies beyond the historic core of Stafford Low within an area which had formed part of a medieval open field system. The suburban houses potentially retain architectural indicators relating to the aspirations of the developers and the original inhabitants. Historical value: The legible heritage assets comprise the range of Medium suburban houses and the associated street pattern. The architectural forms of the different building types across the HUCA reveal the social and economic history of suburban expansion in this area of Stafford. The built environment reflects the social standing and aspirations of the original inhabitants of the HUCA in the surviving architectural forms. Aesthetic value: The HUCA is characterised by suburban Medium development and the associated school. The historic character of the HUCA makes a positive contribution to the local sense of place within the suburban areas of the town and provides an insight into the changing fashion in the built form of suburbs between the late 19th and the early/mid 20th century. Communal value: The HUCA mostly comprises domestic dwellings Low and from a heritage perspective its value is low.

4.8.3 Recommendations

The heritage significance and values have identified the historic character of the HUCA as being dominated by late 19th to mid 20th century suburban expansion which has included new roads and differing architectural philosophies.

The sympathetic restoration or enhancement of the historic buildings would strengthen the historic character and the quality of the wider townscape for the benefit of this and future generations (Bullet Point 10 of para 17 (Core planning principles) also paras. 126 and 131 of NPPF)637. Locally important buildings could be considered for local listing to ensure their contribution to a sense of place for the community and future generations. This is in line with the recent English Heritage guidance document entitled ‘Good practice for local heritage listing (2012)638.

Overall there is a low potential for below ground archaeological deposits to survive within the HUCA. However, further research may alter our understanding of this potential and where development may be deemed to result in the loss of heritage assets (whether wholly or in part) archaeological evaluation and/or mitigation may be required to

637 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 638 English Heritage 2012: http://www.helm.org.uk/guidance-library/good-practice-local- heritage-listing/

134 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

record and advance the understanding of their significance. This is supported in para. 128 of NPPF639.

639 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. 640 Staffordshire County Council. 2011. Web: http://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/environment/eLand/HistoricEnvironment/BuiltEnvironment/Co nservationintheHighwayGuidanceDocument2011.pdf

135 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.9 HUCA 9: Beaconside

Map 23: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.9.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character

The character area mostly comprises post-war suburbs principally built for the service personnel posted at RAF Stafford (cf. 2.8.1). The housing mostly comprises semi-detached houses in roads set in a grid-pattern perhaps applying a military philosophy to town planning. Further settlement expansion has occurred at a later date to the east of the Beaconside estate. This housing contrasts with the military housing estate in its long cul-de-sacs and mix of detached and semi-detached properties.

The extant Stafford General Hospital was built upon the site of the Cotonhill Mental hospital from 1976 onwards (map 23). The Cotonhill Mental Hospital originated as the Cotonhill Asylum in the mid 19th century; it was originally built for wealthy patients and was located well away from the lunatic asylum at St, George’s Hospital641. It was a large building with a separate chapel and standing in landscaped grounds (cf. 2.7.4.2). Only a few 19th century buildings survive including the former asylum chapel and two gate lodges.

641 Staffordshire HER: PRN 40124

136 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

The eastern edge of the character area is dominated by King Pool Covert (HCT ‘Broadleaved Woodland on map 23), which was present by at least the late 19th century. A probable medieval mill pond, King’s Pool, was sited within the covert, but it appears to have been drained during the 20th century642. It is likely that the pond had fed the watermill at the medieval monastic site of St Thomas’ Priory, the remains of which survive c.750m to the south east.

To the east of the character area a scatter of 44 small flint tools were recovered in the late 1940s643. The flints were dated to the Mesolithic period, but a more recent re-appraisal has questioned this date suggesting that some of the artefacts may in fact be of Neolithic or Bronze Age date. To the south, at Kingston Hill, a Neolithic/Bronze Age flint scraper was discovered in 1929644. This evidence probably relates to casual loss, although it is possible that the 44 flints may relate to a flint working site overlooking the resource-rich marshlands of the River Sow during the later prehistoric period.

The manor of Coton was recorded in Domesday Book (1086) and although only one villager and a slave are mentioned there was land for four ploughs. By the mid 15th century the manor was held by St Thomas’ Priory with three open fields although how many villagers there were working these fields is unknown. By the early 19th century only Coton Hill Farm is recorded within the character area, this had been removed further north by the end of the century because the original site was used for the development of the Asylum.

4.9.2 Heritage Values

Evidential value: Whilst the HUCA lies beyond the historic core of Medium Stafford within an area given over to farming since at least the medieval period there is evidence of earlier activity within the area. Archaeological and palaeo-environmental deposits may survive associated with the former King’s Pool. The latter could contribute to our understanding of earlier environments and landscape change. Historical value: There are very few legible heritage assets within Low the character area other than the historic buildings associated with the site of Cotonhill Asylum. Whilst now surrounded by late 20th century development they still contribute to an understanding of the social and economic history of the HUCA; particularly as a comparison for the surviving buildings at St George’s Hospital (cf. HUCA 6). Aesthetic value: The historic character of the HUCA is dominated Low by late 20th century suburban and hospital development. The surviving Cotonhill Asylum buildings do, however, make a positive contribution to a local sense of place. Communal value: The HUCA mostly comprises domestic dwellings Low and from a heritage perspective its value is low.

4.9.3 Recommendations

642 Staffordshire HER: PRN 04928 643 Staffordshire HER: PRN 02107 644 Staffordshire HER: PRN 01944

137 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

The assessment of the heritage assets has identified a degree of heritage interest within the HUCA.

Change within the HUCA should be sympathetic to its historic character. High quality design which is sympathetic to the historic built fabric is the key to retaining the local character of the area as identified in Bullet Point 4 of para. 17 (Core planning principles) and Bullet Point 4 of para. 58 in NPPF.

Individual properties could be considered for local listing to acknowledge their contribution to the local sense of place in line with the recent English Heritage guidance document entitled ‘Good practice for local heritage listing’ (2012)645.

There is the potential for below ground archaeological deposits to survive within the particular areas of the HUCA. Where development may result in the loss of these heritage assets (whether wholly or in part) archaeological evaluation and/or mitigation may be required to record and advance the understanding of their significance; this is supported in para. 128 of NPPF646.

645 English Heritage 2012: http://www.helm.org.uk/guidance-library/good-practice-local- heritage-listing/ 646 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf

138 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

139 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.10 HUCA 10: Littleworth

Map 24: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.10.1 Statement of heritage significance

Settlement at Littleworth appears to have existed by the early 19th century, although historic maps suggest it may have been concentrated on northern side of Weston Road (in HUCA 8). By the 1880s terraced houses had been constructed in the angle of Weston Road and Tixall Road, which includes St Thomas’ Street (HCT ‘Suburb – Terraces’ on map 24). Many of these properties survive and display a variety of architectural detailing although several have been rendered.

No further development appears to have occurred within the HUCA until the early 20th century and includes the terraced houses lying along Harrowby Street. Settlement continued to expand in the area from the 1920s along Tixall Road and on an estate centred on Fairway/Crossway/Hatherton Street and Dartmouth Street (cf. map 11). This estate is dominated by short terraces and semi-detached houses standing in their own gardens. The remainder of the early 20th century houses were semi-detached many with driveways and garages.

The expansion of houses in this area was probably stimulated by the decision of W. H. Dorman Ltd to move their premises from Foregate Street to a new site on the Tixall Road. The early 20th century factory largely survives (cf. 2.8.4.3).

The houses on Clifton Drive and Clifton Rise, to the north of the Tixall Road, were constructed upon the site of a small 19th century brick works.

140 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.10.2 Heritage Values

Evidential value: The HUCA lies beyond the historic core of Stafford Low within an area which had farmland by at least the 19th century. The suburban houses potentially retain architectural indicators relating to the aspirations of the developers and the original inhabitants. The Dorman factory may also retain information which could contribute to our understanding of an early 20th century engineering works. Historical value: There is likely to be an historic association Low between the early 20th century suburban expansion and the location of the contemporary factory. Mid to late 19th century terraced houses survive, some of which retain architectural detailing providing clues to their role in the social and economic history of Stafford. However, many of these properties have since been rendered obscuring much of the detailing. Aesthetic value: The HUCA largely comprises early 20th century Low suburban housing and the associated factory. The integrity of the local character of this HUCA survives within the townscape. Communal value: The HUCA mostly comprises domestic dwellings Low and from a heritage perspective its value is low.

4.10.3 Recommendations

The sympathetic restoration or enhancement of the historic buildings would strengthen the historic character and the quality of the wider townscape for the benefit of this and future generations (Bullet Point 10 of para 17 (Core planning principles) also paras. 126 and 131 of NPPF)647. Locally important buildings could be considered for local listing to ensure their contribution to a sense of place for the community and future generations. This is in line with the recent English Heritage guidance document entitled ‘Good practice for local heritage listing’ (2012)648.

647 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 648 English Heritage 2012: http://www.helm.org.uk/guidance-library/good-practice-local- heritage-listing/ 649 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012.

141 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

142 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.11 HUCA 11: Lammascote

Map 25: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.11.1 Statement of heritage significance

The River Sow passes through the character area from west to east. It is dominated by open land including sports grounds and playing fields which were established upon the floodplain fields in the post war period. A large engineering works (HCT ‘Large-Scale Commercial or Industrial Site’ on map 25) was established in 1962. It now operates as part of Areva T & D Ltd (cf. 2.8.4.3).

To the north of the character area there are surviving floodplain field systems (HCT ‘Drained Wetlands’ on map 25). This character area had formed marshes until the mid 19th century when a programme of drainage was undertaken (cf. 2.7.5.3). Water meadows have been identified across this area with some surviving earthworks and drains650.

4.11.2 Heritage Values

Evidential value: There is the potential for archaeological deposits Medium to survive below the alluvium of the Sow Valley, particularly as the character area has seen little development. Upstanding remains associated with the water meadow system also survive. Historical value: There are few legible heritage assets, although the Medium water meadows provide evidence for systems of land management of this area during the 19th century. Many of the drains continue to function as part of the drainage of this area.

650 Staffordshire HER: PRN 52259

143 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

Aesthetic value: The water meadows and drainage systems within Medium the HUCA form a small part of a wider area of drained wetlands to the east beyond the HUCA. They therefore make a positive contribution to the historic character of this wider area. Communal value: A public right of way follows the course of the Medium River Sow providing some access into the landscape of the drained wetlands. Further research into the water meadows and their survival could provide material for the presentation of these features and their importance to the local landscape to the community and visitors.

4.11.3 Recommendations

The heritage significance and values sections had identified the presence of surviving water meadows which contribute to an understanding of the management of the landscape from the 19th century onwards.

The conservation and enhancement of the water meadow features should be encouraged.

651 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf

144 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.12 HUCA 12: West of Foregate Street

Map 26: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.12.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character

The character area lies on the west side of Foregate Street, which has been the main route north out of Stafford probably since the later Saxon period. It has been speculated that this route follows the line of a Roman road, but this has not been proven archaeologically. There is evidence for medieval activity, just to the north of the historic core of the town on Chell Road, in the

145 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment form of a cluster of pits (cf. map 26)652. These features may indicate that this area, which was on the far side of the town wall, was used as a midden at this period or they may have been associated with the medieval suburb of Foregate. The suburb is known to have existed by the late 12th century and had probably continued to extend along Foregate Street into the post medieval period (cf. 2.5.3.1 and 2.6.3.1; map 7).

The Stafford General Infirmary was established in the late 18th century and the principal range of this building, designed by Benjamin Wyatt Senior survives, although it was significantly altered in the 1890s653. By circa 1880 the hospital complex included a laundry and a garden to the rear. The 1890s alterations, carried out by the architect Sir Aston Webb, enlarged the hospital complex considerably. A detached mortuary was also built and the gardens were extended westwards. Most of the hospital complex was demolished circa 1999 to allow the construction of a retail park, although three hospital buildings, including the original 18th century range survive fronting onto Foregate Street. The importance of the hospital building to Stafford’s townscape has been acknowledged in its incorporation in the Foregate Street Conservation Area. A power station was constructed to the south of the hospital in 1895. The chimney to the power station was demolished in the 1960s654.

In the early 19th century the Elley family, one of the largest boot and shoe manufacturers in Stafford, relocated to the western side of Foregate Street and established a large factory here655. By the end of the 19th century several rows of terraced houses had been constructed including ‘Forebridge Square’ which may have been built for Elley’s workers656. By the 1880s a second boot and shoe manufactory had been established at the southern end of the HUCA as had a large timber yard, which may have been associated with the shoe industry.

However, much of the HUCA was redeveloped during the mid to late 20th century being dominated by large-scale industrial and/or commercial units and a large open air car park (cf. map 26). The car park was constructed upon the site of a water meadow, which was probably established as part of the drainage works undertaken throughout the town in the mid 19th century657. The water meadow was fed by the River Sow which flows south through the character area. Evidence for a ford and a series of wooden stakes were discovered to the south of Broad Eye Bridge in the 1970s658.

The current Broad Eye Bridge is 20th century in date, but it replaces at least two earlier bridges659. The bridge represents the western exit from the town

652 Staffordshire HER: PRN 03183 653 Staffordshire HER: PRN 54474 and PRN 05567 654 Staffordshire HER: PRN 50364 655 Harrison 1978: 51 and 54 656 Ibid 657 Staffordshire HER: PRN 52113 658 Staffordshire HER: PRN 03189 659 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00783

146 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment and it has been speculated that this was not a major route in the medieval and post medieval periods (cf. 2.5.7).

4.12.2 Heritage Values

Evidential value: Despite redevelopment in this area there remains Medium the potential for below ground archaeological deposits to survive relating to both medieval settlement and 19th century industrial activity particularly associated with the shoe industry Historical value: Few legible heritage assets survive with the Low exception of the General Infirmary buildings and the late 19th century power station. Aesthetic value: The importance of the surviving Staffordshire Medium Infirmary buildings to the townscape of Staffordshire has been acknowledged in the designation of the Foregate Street Conservation Area. Communal value: From a heritage perspective the communal value Low is low.

4.12.3 Recommendations

The heritage significance and values sections have identified the survival of two historic buildings and the potential for below ground archaeological deposits.

The sympathetic restoration or enhancement of the historic buildings would strengthen the historic character and the quality of the wider townscape for the benefit of this and future generations (Bullet Point 10 of para 17 (Core planning principles) also paras. 126 and 131 of NPPF)660. Locally important buildings could be considered for local listing to ensure their contribution to a sense of place for the community and future generations. This is in line with the recent English Heritage guidance document entitled ‘Good practice for local heritage listing’ (2012)661.

A Conservation Area Appraisal should be undertaken for the Foregate Street Conservation Area.

660 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 661 English Heritage 2012: http://www.helm.org.uk/guidance-library/good-practice-local- heritage-listing/ 662 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012.

147 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.13 HUCA 13: Marston Brook

Map 27: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.13.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character

The HUCA is dominated by industrial units and industrial estates; there are few houses with the exception of those along the eastern side of Common Road (HCT ‘Suburb’ on map 27).

The line of the Stafford to Uttoxeter railway is still visible within the character area. The line opened in the late 19th century and Stafford Common railway station opened in 1874. The line was closed to passengers in 1939 and to freight in the 1950s, although the station buildings were not demolished until 1973663. Rows of terraced houses, called Providence Place and Railway Terrace, had been constructed to the north of the railway line by the late 19th

663 Staffordshire HER: PRN 50735 and PRN 50416

148 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment century. These houses may have been built to provide homes for railway workers. Whilst the majority had been demolished by the end of the 20th century one terrace and ‘The Rifleman’ public house survive fronting onto Common Road (encompassed in HCT ‘Industrial’ on map 27).

The industrial origins of the HUCA lie in the late 19th century when in 1877 salt was discovered on the southern edge of Stafford Common (cf. 2.7.5.4). Three salt works were built to extract this resource and were located close to the railway line by circa 1920 (cf. map 27)664. The two works to the north of railway had been demolished by 1963 facilitating the construction of the extant industrial estates665. Salt production in Stafford ceased in 1970 (cf. 2.8.4.3).

The extant houses (HCT ‘Suburb’ on map 27) on Common Road date to the early 20th century and are comprised of semi-detached houses and short terraced ranges each consisting of four houses. These properties are likely to have been associated with the expansion of the salt industry in the same period. Just to the south of these houses (also within HCT ‘Suburb’) is an extant farmstead, previously known as Marston Villa. The complex survives although its farm buildings have been converted to domestic use. This is one of two farmsteads which existed in the HUCA by the late 19th century. The other stood on Sandon Road, but has since been demolished.

The landscape which the two complexes farmed had formed part of Marston Field, one of the open fields belonging to Marston manor from the medieval period666. The open field was enclosed following an Act of Parliament (1800) to create a regular landscape of ‘Planned Enclosure’ (cf. 2.7.5.3). Parts of this field system still survive within the HUCA (cf. map 27).

4.13.2 Heritage Values

Evidential value: The HUCA lies beyond the historic core of Stafford Low within an area which had formed an arable landscape by at least the medieval period. The 19th century terraces, public house and the late 20th century suburban houses potentially retain architectural indicators relating to the aspirations of the developers and the original inhabitants. Historical value: Despite the character of the HUCA being Low dominated by late 20th and early 21st century industrial development heritage assets are still legible within the townscape. The railway and the extant 19th century buildings are likely to be associated, whilst the early 20th century houses are testimony to the early importance of industry within the HUCA. Aesthetic value: The HUCA largely comprises late 20th century Low industrial development, although the late 19th century and early 20th century buildings contribute to an earlier historic character, which contributes to a local sense of place

664 Staffordshire HER: PRN 52506, PRN 54477 and PRN 54478 665 Hunting Surveys Ltd 1963: Run 25: 0438 666 Greenslade et al 1979: 209-10

149 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

Communal value: The HUCA mostly comprises industrial Low development and from a heritage perspective its value is low.

4.13.3 Recommendations

The heritage significance and values have identified a degree of historic interest.

The sympathetic restoration or enhancement of the historic buildings would strengthen the historic character and the quality of the wider townscape for the benefit of this and future generations (Bullet Point 10 of para 17 (Core planning principles) also paras. 126 and 131 of NPPF)667. Locally important buildings could be considered for local listing to ensure their contribution to a sense of place for the community and future generations. This is in line with the recent English Heritage guidance document entitled ‘Good practice for local heritage listing’ (2012)668.

667 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 668 English Heritage 2012: http://www.helm.org.uk/guidance-library/good-practice-local- heritage-listing/ 669 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012.

150 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.14 HUCA 14: Sandon Road

Map 28: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.14.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character

The character area is dominated by a suburban character comprising housing estates of early and mid 20th century date. The earliest properties lie along the southern portion of Sandon Road and comprise terraced houses. Housing expanded further northwards in the early 20th century along Sandon Road and along purpose-built roads including Oxford Gardens, Chesham Road and Coronation Road (cf. map 28). The properties mostly comprise semi-detached houses, although there are terraces of six houses in Oxford Gardens. All of the properties have front gardens of sufficient size to provide driveways for cars; a number of houses have purpose-built garages to the side. The houses along Bertelin Road, to the far north of the HUCA, had been built by the early 1960s.

151 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

This suburban expansion was constructed upon field systems created in both the post medieval (HCT ‘Piecemeal Enclosure’ on map 8) and the 18th/19th century (HCT ‘Planned Enclosure’ on map 9). The houses were largely built upon a field system, which was probably enclosed in the post medieval period.

4.14.2 Heritage Values

Evidential value: The HUCA lies beyond the historic core of Stafford Low within an area which was an agricultural landscape of fields by the late 19th century. There is currently little evidence for human activity beyond this within the HUCA. Historical value: The HUCA is dominated by 20th century housing Low development and forms part of the suburban expansion of Stafford which is probably closely linked with the growth of industry in the town during this period (cf. 2.8.4.3). The houses represent the legible social and economic history of the town during the 20th century. Aesthetic value: The historic character of the HUCA is principally Low defined by early 20th century suburban development along purpose built roads.

Communal value: The HUCA mostly comprises domestic dwelling Low and from a heritage perspective its value is low.

4.14.3 Recommendations

The heritage values and significance have identified that overall is there a low historic environment interest, but the suburban development in itself contributes to an understanding of Stafford’s 20th century social and economic history.

670 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf

152 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.15 HUCA 15: Stafford Common

Map 29: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.15.1 Statement of heritage significance

The HUCA is characterised by a large area of open grassland known as Stafford Common (map 29). From at least the medieval period onwards this landscape had formed part of one of the open fields belonging to Marston manor (Marston Field cf. 2.5.5.2 and map 6). There are legible heritage assets within the HUCA which reveal the origins of this area as a functioning part of the arable economy of Marston manor. Ridge and furrow earthworks

153 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment and at least three marl pits are all features of an arable landscape; the former resulted from the action of the plough and the latter were extraction pits for marl to improve the soil (cf. map 26). The fact that these features survive is due in part to the late date at which the open field system of agriculture was abandoned; this occurred following an Act of Enclosure passed in 1807 and this area has since been used predominantly for pasture.

Even during the medieval period the townspeople of Stafford had the rights to pasture their animals on Marston Field at certain times. What became known as Stafford Common was granted to the townspeople as grazing land as part of the Enclosure Act in the early 19th century.

4.15.2 Heritage Values

Evidential value: There are extant earthworks across the HUCA Medium with the potential for further above ground archaeology to survive. The fact that the area has not been development also increases the potential for below ground deposits to survive although since at least the medieval period the area had formed part of an open field. Historical value: The legible heritage assets are all testimony to the High origins of this area as part of the open field system belonging to Marston Manor from the medieval period until the early 19th century. Stafford Common in its present form, as an area of pasture, dates from the latter period, although common pasture was granted to the townspeople of Stafford at certain times from the medieval period. Aesthetic value: The HUCA denotes a rural character within the High northern suburbs of Stafford. The Common is an important component of the local character of the townscape, which is largely unchanged from its creation in the early 19th century. Communal value: The HUCA is an important area of public open High space within the wider townscape. The survival of the heritage assets provides the potential for the history of the HUCA to be presented to be present to community and visitors.

4.15.3 Recommendations

The heritage significance and values has identified the importance of Stafford Common to the history of the area. This history can be read within the landscape in the form of the ridge and furrow earthworks and the marl pits.

671 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf

154 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

The conservation and/or enhancement of the legible heritage assets should be encouraged. 4.16 HUCA 16: Stafford Cemetery & Eccleshall Road

Map 30: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.16.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character

Stafford Cemetery dominates the southern half of the character area (map 30). It was opened in 1856 and by the early 20th century it had been extended to the far side of the railway line. Several historic buildings survive within the grounds of the cemetery including two mortuary chapels. The surviving gravestones and funerary monuments, particularly in the older parts of the cemetery, enhance the character of the 19th century cemetery and retain valuable information regarding the developing population of Stafford during the 19th and 20th centuries.

The remainder of the HUCA is dominated by late 19th century suburban expansion along the two main roads; Stone Road and Eccleshall Road. The earliest development was the large detached villas along the Eccleshall Road north of the cemetery (HCT ‘Suburb’ on map 30). ‘The Hollies’ was built in 1879 for a shoe manufacturer and it is likely that the earliest of the other

155 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment properties were of a similar date. Development infill, has occurred from the early 20th century onwards, mostly of similarly large properties.

The earliest of the terraced houses were being built along Alliance Street and Izaak Walton Street in the 1880s (HCT ‘Suburb – Terraces’ on map 30). The remaining terraced housing, including those along Stone Road, had been completed by circa 1900.

The two areas of allotment gardens were laid out in the mid 20th century.

4.16.2 Heritage Values

Evidential value: The HUCA lies beyond the historic core of Stafford Low within an area which had probably formed fields prior to development. Historical value: Heritage assets dominate the majority of the High HUCA in the form of the 19th century cemetery, historic buildings and the associated street pattern. The variety of housing types across the HUCA from the large villas on Eccleshall Road to the smaller terraces all contribute to an understanding of the social and economic history of Stafford’s development as an industrial town in the 19th century. ‘The Hollies’ was built for a shoe manufacturer. The allotments also a role in understanding the social history of early and mid 20th century Stafford. Aesthetic value: The integrity of the HUCA as a 19th century Medium suburb and cemetery is largely well preserved, although individual buildings may have been subsequently altered. Communal value: The heritage assets can only be appreciated from Low street level, although interpretation may enhance the community and visitor appreciation and understanding.

4.16.3 Recommendations

The heritage significance and values has identified the importance of the historic built environment to the local character of the HUCA.

The sympathetic restoration or enhancement of the historic buildings would strengthen the historic character and the quality of the wider townscape for the benefit of this and future generations (Bullet Point 10 of para 17 (Core planning principles) also paras. 126 and 131 of NPPF)672. Locally important buildings could be considered for local listing to ensure their contribution to a sense of place for the community and future generations. This is in line with the recent English Heritage guidance document entitled ‘Good practice for local heritage listing’ (2012)673.

672 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 673 English Heritage 2012: http://www.helm.org.uk/guidance-library/good-practice-local- heritage-listing/

156 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

674 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. 675 Staffordshire County Council. 2011. Web: http://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/environment/eLand/HistoricEnvironment/BuiltEnvironment/Co nservationintheHighwayGuidanceDocument2011.pdf

157 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.17 HUCA 17: Tillington, Holmcroft and Parkfields

Map 31: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.17.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character

The character area is dominated by large housing estates, which were spread across the HUCA throughout the 20th century (cf. map 11). The earliest of these, built in the 1930s, lies off the Stone Road at Holmcroft. Several purpose built roads were constructed including Holmcroft Road, First Avenue and Young Avenue to the west of Stone Road and North Avenue to the east. A school, Tillington Manor, was constructed at the same period to serve the new community.

158 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

The majority of the housing was constructed during the mid 20th century spreading along Eccleshall Road as ribbon development and across the former field system along purpose-built roads. Housing at Trinity Fields lies to the west of Stone Road, whilst Parkside lies to the east. A second school was built to further serve the growing communities.

To the south west of Eccleshall Road a housing estate comprising detached houses was constructed partly upon the site Creswell Hall landscape park and partly upon the site of a farmstead known as Manor Farm. Creswell Hall had once stood to the north west of the M6, beyond the EUS project area, and its landscape park (probably laid out in its final form in the 18th or 19th century) extended for approximately 1km along the Eccleshall Road. The farm buildings of Manor Farm were demolished to make way for the housing estate, but the farmhouse, now Creswell Manor, survives. It lies behind a low stone wall and mature trees screen the site from the Eccleshall Road.

Tillington, lying to the north of the Eccleshall Road, is recorded in Domesday Book (1086) with seven heads of household. There was also land for four ploughs implying that arable agriculture was being carried out. This evidence does not necessarily imply a village for the settlement may have been dispersed across the landscape. However, it is possible that there was a degree of contraction associated with Tillington following the medieval period676. By the early 19th century Tillington comprised quite widely scattered farmsteads and cottages. The origins of Tillington Hall, shown on late 19th century maps, are currently unclear. An historic building survives at the core of the extant complex which was substantially enlarged in the 20th century and is currently used as a hotel.

4.17.2 Heritage Values

Evidential value: The HUCA lies beyond the historic core of Stafford Low within an area which had probably formed fields prior to development. Historical value: Two undesignated historic buildings survive within Low the HUCA, although Tillington Hall has been considerably altered during the 20th century. The survival of these buildings contributes to an understanding of the earlier history prior to suburban expansion. The suburbs themselves contribute to an understanding of Stafford’s 20th century history. Aesthetic value: The HUCA comprises 20th century housing Low estates, each associated with purpose built streets. Other than the two historic buildings little of the earlier historic character survives. Communal value: The HUCA mostly comprises domestic dwelling Low and from a heritage perspective its value is low.

4.17.3 Recommendations

The heritage values and significance have identified that overall is there a low historic environment interest, but the suburban development in itself

676 Staffordshire HER: PRN 02580

159 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment contributes to an understanding of Stafford’s 20th century social and economic history.

4.18 HUCA 18: Stafford Castle & St Mary’s Church

Map 32: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.18.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character

The first phases of the castle were probably built in the late 11th century by Robert of Stafford678. A settlement, known as Monetville was probably established at the same time, although this became deserted during the course of the medieval period (cf. 2.5.3.2)679. The castle was rebuilt in stone in 1348 and three deer parks had been established by the 15th century (cf.

677 Ibid. 678 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00058 679 Staffordshire HER: PRN 04176

160 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

2.5.2.2). The whole complex including the well-preserved earthworks around the castle: the remains of gardens; the inner and outer bailey and the possible remains of the settlement of Monetville is protected as a Scheduled Monument680. A programme of archaeological excavation and historic assessment of the castle and the associated earthworks was carried out between 1978 and 1998, which included survey work of the earthworks surrounding the castle.

The surviving Grade II listed stone keep dates from c.1811 and was probably reconstructed as a folly681. It is possible that the woodland which surrounds the slopes of the motte was established as part of the landscaping of the area at this time (cf. HCT ‘Broadleaved Woodland’ on map 32).

It is possible that the Grade II listed St Mary’s Church had been established prior to the Norman Conquest (1066), although the earliest surviving fabric has been dated to the 15th century (cf. 2.5.6.4) 682. Two of the early 19th century monuments in the churchyard are also Grade II listed683.

4.18.2 Heritage Values

Evidential value: There is a high potential for both above and below High ground archaeological remains to survive associated with Stafford Castle, as has been shown by the survey work carried on the site, and associated with the church. Historical value: The legible heritage assets dominate the HUCA, High which is principally comprised of the historic buildings of the two Grade II listed buildings: Stafford Castle and St Mary’s Church. The archaeological and historic importance of the site has also been recognised by the designation of a large part of the HUCA as a Scheduled Monument. Aesthetic value: The two key buildings, the church and the castle, High contribute significantly to the local character of Stafford. The castle in particular, standing as it does on its motte, is an important feature of large area of the western Staffordshire landscape. Communal value: Stafford Castle is open to the public and St High Mary’s church is a focal point within Stafford’s western suburbs as well as a place which brings people together for spiritual worship.

4.18.3 Recommendations

The heritage significance and values has identified the historic and archaeological importance of both Stafford Castle and St Mary’s church to the origins and local character of Stafford.

A statement of significance (heritage statement) will be required to assess the impact of any proposed development upon the historic

680 English Heritage: SM 21559 681 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00059 682 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08327 683 Staffordshire HER: PRN 14073 and PRN 14074

161 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

environment as part of any planning application to be made within this HUCA (cf. para. 128 of NPPF)684.

Where alterations or changes are proposed to the listed buildings the applicant consult with the Stafford Borough Conservation Officer in the first instance685. Any works on or within the vicinity of the Scheduled Monument should consult English Heritage during the pre-planning stage. All of the designated heritage assets and their settings are covered under para. 132 of NPPF686.

Where proposals are likely to directly or indirectly impact upon the Scheduled Monument or its setting English Heritage should be consulted at and early state to determine whether Scheduled Monument Consent is required.

There is a high potential for both above and below ground archaeological deposits to survive within the HUCA. Where development may result in the loss of these heritage assets (whether wholly or in part) archaeological evaluation and/or mitigation may be required to record and advance the understanding of their significance; this is supported in para. 128 of NPPF687.

684 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 685 The Conservation Area Appraisal is accessible online at http://www.staffordbc.gov.uk/live/Documents/Forward%20Planning/Conservation/Stafford- Conservation-Area-Appraisal.pdf 686 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 687 Ibid.

162 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.19 HUCA 19: Castlefields

Map 33: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.19.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character

The HUCA is dominated by open landscape comprising a golf course (HCT ‘Other Parkland’), sports fields and an area of drained wetlands (cf. map 33). The golf course and the sports fields were established in the mid 20th century. The faint remains of ridge and furrow earthworks survive in two areas of the golf course. This is evidence that this landscape was ploughed from at least the medieval period.

The only buildings within the HUCA are the large housing estate constructed in the late 20th century principally comprising detached houses and ‘The Hollies’ (cf. HCTs ’Suburb’ and ‘Other Non-Residential Development’ on map 33). The latter include a large detached house of at least late 19th century

163 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment date, but two large commercial buildings were constructed to the rear in the mid 20th century.

Doxey Drain lies to the north of character area, which formed part of the drainage works all around Stafford carried out during the mid 19th century. This area had formed a marsh prior to its drainage and consequently there is the potential for deposits containing palaeoenvironmental data relating to previous land use from the prehistoric period onwards, to survive. However, part of the area has been used as a tip.

4.19.2 Heritage Values

Evidential value: There is the potential for below ground Medium archaeological and palaeoenvironmental deposits to survive in the area of the drained wetlands. Earthworks also survive within the area of the golf course. Historical value: There are few legible heritage assets other than Low the ridge and furrow earthworks and the property known as ‘The Hollies’. Aesthetic value: The historic character of the HUCA is dominated Low by a mid 20th century golf course and late 20th century housing. Communal value: From a heritage perspective the communal value Low is low.

4.19.3 Recommendations

The heritage significance and values sections have identified a few heritage assets, which contribute to the history of the HUCA, but overall the character is defined by mid and late 20th century landscaping and development.

The conservation and/or enhancement of the legible heritage assets, notably the ridge and furrow earthworks, should be encouraged.

688 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf

164 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

165 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.20 HUCA 20: West of Castletown

Map 34: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.20.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character

The HUCA is dominated by industrial development comprising large units the majority of which were built in the mid and late 20th century (map 34). The earliest industrial complex, however, is the former Bagnall’s locomotive factory, Castle Engine Works, on Castle Street which was first built in 1876, but has since been enlarged and altered (cf. 2.7.5.4)689. The locomotive works was located adjacent to the railway.

The origins of the railway lie in the 19th century, but the extant railway station was re-built in the later 20th century. Short sections of two other railway lines survive within the character area, both of which are now used as cycle paths. The Stafford & Uttoxeter Railway leaves the main line in a north easterly direction690. It had opened in 1867, but was closed by 1951. The line of the Stafford to Wellington Railway leaves the mainline in the southerly direction, which was constructed in 1849 and closed in the 1961s 691.

689 Staffordshire HER: PRN 54457 690 Staffordshire HER: PRN 50735 691 Staffordshire HER: PRN 50655

166 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

The only significant area of housing within the HUCA is the estate lying to the north, Timberlands, which was constructed in the early 21st century. Prior to the housing development this area had formed part of the industrial character of the HUCA which in the 19th century had comprised a timber yard and saw mill.

The earliest building within the character area is the Eagle Inn, Newport Road, which is a Grade II Listed Building dating to c.1800692.

4.20.2 Heritage Values

Evidential value: The HUCA lies beyond the historic core of Stafford Low in an area which had comprised part of the rural economy. Historic industrial buildings survive within the Castle Engine Works which may retain information that could contribute to Stafford’s industrial history. Historical value: There are a number of legible heritage assets Medium including the railway, Grade II public house and the Castle Engine Works. These heritage assets contribute to an understanding of the 19th century industrial development of Stafford. Aesthetic value: Overall the historic character of the HUCA Low comprises mid to late 20th century industrial development and early 21st century housing. The surviving historic buildings make a positive contribution to the local character. Communal value: From a heritage perspective the communal value Low is low.

4.20.3 Recommendations

The heritage significance and values sections have identified limited heritage assets which contribute to the local character and Stafford’s industrial history.

The sympathetic restoration or enhancement of the historic buildings would strengthen the historic character and the quality of the wider townscape for the benefit of this and future generations (Bullet Point 10 of para 17 (Core planning principles) also paras. 126 and 131 of NPPF)694. Locally important buildings could be considered for local listing to ensure their contribution to a sense of place for the community

692 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08325 693 Ibid. 694 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf

167 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

and future generations. This is in line with the recent English Heritage guidance document entitled ‘Good practice for local heritage listing’ (2012)695.

4.21 HUCA 21: Castletown

Map 35: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.21.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character

The development of the streets and terraced houses which comprise the mid 19th century suburb of Castletown appears to have followed the construction of the railway line (map 35). Certainly the area appears to have been predominantly occupied by railway workers by the late 19th century.

The houses were probably built speculatively by individual builders. Whilst the houses are of a similar scale the variations in the architectural detailing of the properties reflect this piecemeal construction. An analysis of these streets would probably reveal further evidence of the social and economic history of Stafford during the 19th century.

695 English Heritage 2012: http://www.helm.org.uk/guidance-library/good-practice-local- heritage-listing/

168 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.21.2 Heritage Values

Evidential value: The HUCA lies beyond the historic core of Low Stafford. Historical value: Heritage assets dominate the HUCA in the form of Medium the mid 19th century terraced houses and the associated street pattern. The terraced houses contribute to an understanding of the social and economic history of Stafford during the mid 19th century, although many properties have been significantly altered. Aesthetic value: The legibility of the historic character of the mid Medium 19th century suburb, comprising the terraces and street pattern, is well preserved and makes a positive contribution to the sense place in this part of Stafford. Communal value: The HUCA mostly comprises domestic dwelling Low and from a heritage perspective its value is low.

4.21.3 Recommendations

The heritage significance and values has identified the importance of the historic built environment to the local character of the HUCA and its historic association with the railway.

The sympathetic restoration or enhancement of the historic buildings would strengthen the historic character and the quality of the wider townscape for the benefit of this and future generations (Bullet Point 10 of para 17 (Core planning principles) also paras. 126 and 131 of NPPF)696. Locally important buildings could be considered for local listing to ensure their contribution to a sense of place for the community and future generations. This is in line with the recent English Heritage guidance document entitled ‘Good practice for local heritage listing’ (2012)697.

696 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 697 English Heritage 2012: http://www.helm.org.uk/guidance-library/good-practice-local- heritage-listing/ 698 Staffordshire County Council. 2011. Web: http://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/environment/eLand/HistoricEnvironment/BuiltEnvironment/Co nservationintheHighwayGuidanceDocument2011.pdf

169 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.22 HUCA 22: Victoria Park

Map 36: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.22.1 Statement of heritage significance

The character area is dominated by Victoria Park, which opened in 1908 and was twice extended in 1911 and during the 1930s700. The features of the park include a bowling green, a band stand and a Grade II Listed park shelter dated to 1905 (cf. map 36)701. The war memorial stands just outside of the park facing onto Victoria Road. It is also a Grade II Listed structure which was erected in 1920702.

The river Sow bisects Victoria Park and in the medieval period provided a boundary between the town and the southern suburb of Forebridge, which lay

699 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 700 Staffordshire HER: PRN 40158 701 Staffordshire HER: PRN 14106 702 Staffordshire HER: PRN 14107

170 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment in the manor of Castle Church. The historic route across the river is Green Bridge, the extant structure being of late 19th century date703. This replaced an earlier stone bridge, which in turn had probably replaced a medieval bridge, possibly that mentioned in c.1200 (cf. 2.5.7).

The river also fed a watermill and mill pond on Mill Bank until 1957 when the mill was demolished704. Archaeological excavations on the site of the watermill identified several phases, the first dating to the 12th century with the final phase in the 1830s (cf. 2.5.5.3, 2.6.5.3, 2.7.5.3 and 2.8.4.2). The waterwheels from the mill remain on display at the site of the mill.

To the south of the mill there is a Grade II Listed large detached house, Moat House, which was constructed circa1810705.

The line of the medieval town walls crossed through this character area. They were extant in the 17th century706. An archaeological evaluation carried out on the south side of Mill Bank identified several phases of activity the earliest dating to the 17th century707. There is the potential for further archaeological deposits to survive within the character area associated with the town wall and activities which would have been carried out on the far side of it. The street name Tenterbanks, for instance, suggests that the drying of cloth or animal skins was carried out in this area (cf. 2.5.5.6).

4.22.2 Heritage Values

Evidential value: There is the potential for below ground High archaeological and palaeoenvironmental deposits to survive within the HUCA. Such deposits may reveal evidence for industrial activity and the remains of the medieval town boundary (ditch and wall). Historical value: There are numerous legible heritage assets within High the HUCA which contribute to an understanding of the history of Stafford from the remains of the watermill to the layout and structures of the early 20th century Victoria Park. Aesthetic value: The historic character of the early 20th century park High is well preserved and its importance to the townscape has been confirmed in its inclusion in the Stafford Town Conservation Area and the listed buildings. Communal value: Victoria Park provides an important public open High. space within the townscape.

4.22.3 Recommendations

The heritage significance and values sections have identified the importance of the historic environment, particularly the character of Victoria Park, to the wider townscape.

703 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00782 704 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00786 and PRN 03748 705 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08323 706 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00767 707 Staffordshire HER: PRN MST 13966

171 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

There are numerous designated heritage assets within the HUCA. Where alterations or changes are proposed to the buildings and structures, whether Listed or not, within the Conservation Area the applicant should refer to the Stafford Conservation Area Appraisal and consultation with the Stafford Borough Conservation Officer should take place in the first instance710. All of the designated heritage assets and their settings are covered under para. 132 of NPPF711.

There is a high potential for below ground archaeological deposits to survive within the HUCA. Where development may result in the loss of these heritage assets (whether wholly or in part) archaeological evaluation and/or mitigation may be required to record and advance the understanding of their significance; this is supported in para. 128 of NPPF712.

708 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 709 Ibid. 710 The Conservation Area Appraisal is accessible online at http://www.staffordbc.gov.uk/live/Documents/Forward%20Planning/Conservation/Stafford- Conservation-Area-Appraisal.pdf 711 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 712 Ibid.

172 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

173 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.23 HUCA 23: Rowley Park

Map 37: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.23.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character

The earliest extant property within the HUCA is the Grade II listed Rowley Hall which was built c.1817 (cf. map 37). A landscape park was established around the hall but the characteristics of the parkland have been lost to a sports ground and other development during the 20th century. However, it is possible that Rowley Hall lies on the site of a medieval manor house (cf. 2.5.3.2).

The historic character of the HUCA, however, is dominated by suburban expansion. The earliest surviving houses are located on the Newport Road to the north of the HUCA (cf. map 11). These are a mix of both large semi- detached villas and long terraced houses which lie not only on either side of Newport Road, but also along Brunswick Terrace. The importance of many of

174 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment these properties, not only to the Stafford townscape, but nationally has been acknowledged by their Grade II Listed status. The earliest of these is The Hawthorns, Newport Road which is a large detached house built circa 1830713. The remaining properties including Brunswick Terrace, a row of thirteen houses, and the five former railway workers cottages on Newport Road, were all built circa 1850 (cf. map 37)714.

Map 38: Second Edition 25” OS map (circa 1900)

However, the core of the HUCA relates to a planned development of well- proportioned suburban houses proposed in the 1860s, although the final development took several decades to complete715. This development, Rowley Park, was laid out over part of Rowley Hall’s landscape park and three roads formed part of the earliest phase, Crescent Road, Lawn Road and Rowley Park Pleasure Gardens. Numbers 1-8 Lawn Road were built in 1868 by the Stafford Land, Building and Improvement Co. Ltd as part of this scheme and are now Grade II Listed716. The houses were principally detached and semi- detached villas aimed at the higher strata’s of Stafford’s late 19th century community. Map 38 shows how few houses had been built by circa 1900. Infilling of the vacant plots has occurred throughout the 20th century, but the principals of the original scheme continue to be reflected by the construction of large detached houses.

The remainder of the suburban expansion, which extends into the southern portion of the HUCA and west along Newport Road, to the north, dates to the

713 Staffordshire HER: PRN 8326 714 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08195, PRN 14071 and PRN 08330 715 Greenslade et al 1979: 159 716 Staffordshire HER: PRN 14088

175 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment early 20th century. The small housing estate of Burton Manor, lying to the far south of the HUCA, has been designated as a Conservation Area. Work commenced on a plan to develop a large suburb at Burton Manor in 1926 as a private housing estate for the employees of Hall Engineering Company. The suburb intended to follow the principles of the ‘garden city’ movement to provide decent housing and improve the environment of the inhabitants (cf. 2.8.1)717. However, despite plans for 200 houses, a cinema, a school and tennis courts only 70 houses were built718. The two roads upon which the Conservation Area is focused, Manor Green and Manor Square, are the exemplars of the scheme, the houses, of several architectural styles, having been built in an ‘arts and crafts’ style719. The full scheme was never fully realised due to the economic downturn of the later 1920s/1930s.

4.23.2 Heritage Values

Evidential value: The HUCA lies beyond the historic core of Stafford Medium within an area which had probably formed fields prior to development. There is the potential for below ground archaeological remains associated with earlier settlement to survive in the vicinity of Rowley Hall. The Hall itself may also retain architectural features, which may contribute to an understanding of its origins. Historical value: The origins and different styles of housing across Medium the HUCA tell the story of Stafford’s suburban growth from the late 19th century onwards. Rowley Hall provides an understanding of the earlier history of the HUCA as a landed estate. The importance of the earliest houses has been acknowledged in their designated status and the largest of them set the tone for the future development across the former landscape park. Two plans for suburban housing, aiming to improve the environment for the inhabitants, were planned within the HUCA neither of which were completed, but sufficient evidence survives for us to understand their aims. Burton Manor is of particular importance as it set out to put into practice the ‘garden city’ principles as a private enterprise. Aesthetic value: The historic character of the HUCA as a suburb is Medium well preserved although the development was ultimately piecemeal in execution despite the two plans by Stafford Land, Building & Improvement Co. in the 1860s and for Burton Manor in the 1920s. However, the importance of the growth of the suburbs in the 19th century has been acknowledged in the designation of specific buildings as Grade II Listed buildings. The terraces along Newport Road being built for railway workers, although the remainder of much of the HUCA was planned as a higher status suburb. This changed in the early 20th century with the commencement of Burton Manor. The importance of this suburb to Stafford’s townscape and to a wider understanding of the Garden City Movement’s principles has been acknowledged in the designation of the Conservation Area.

717 Miller 2010 718 Stafford Borough Council nd. 719 Ibid

176 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

Communal value: The HUCA largely comprises domestic dwellings, Medium but the suburban townscape exemplified in the architectural style and detailing can be appreciated from the street. Burton Manor Conservation Area has been highlighted by English Heritage as an exemplar for community action in highlighting and seeking to conserve the historic and architectural importance of this suburb720.

4.23.3 Recommendations

The heritage significance and values has identified the importance of the historic built environment to the local character of the HUCA.

Where alterations or changes are proposed to the listed buildings, and any buildings within Burton Manor Conservation Area the applicant should consult with the Stafford Borough Conservation Officer in the first instance. All of the designated heritage assets and their settings are covered under para. 132 of NPPF721.

The sympathetic restoration or enhancement of the historic buildings would strengthen the historic character and the quality of the wider townscape for the benefit of this and future generations (Bullet Point 10 of para 17 (Core planning principles) also paras. 126 and 131 of NPPF)722. Locally important buildings could be considered for local listing to ensure their contribution to a sense of place for the community and future generations. This is in line with the recent English Heritage guidance document entitled ‘Good practice for local heritage listing’ (2012)723.

There is the potential for below ground archaeological deposits to survive within parts of the HUCA. There is also the potential for Rowley Hall to retain important architectural elements which could inform their origins, development and function. Where development may result in the loss of these heritage assets (whether wholly or in part) archaeological evaluation and/or mitigation may be required to record and advance the understanding of their significance; this is supported in para. 128 of NPPF724.

720 English Heritage 2011. HELM web accessed 16/08/2011 721 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 722 Ibid. 723 English Heritage 2012: http://www.helm.org.uk/guidance-library/good-practice-local- heritage-listing/ 724 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012

177 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

Environment Team should be consulted. Reference should also be made to the joint English Heritage and Department of Transport volume entitled ‘Streets for All: West Midlands’ and where appropriate to the SCC ‘Conservation in the Highways’ document725.

4.24 HUCA 24: Highfields & Western Downs

Map 39: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.24.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character

The HUCA is dominated by suburban expansion the majority of which was carried out in the mid 20th century (cf. map 11). This expansion included ribbon development of large detached houses along the northern side of Newport Road. To the south, purpose-built estates were developed principally comprising semi-detached houses, although the estate based

725 Staffordshire County Council. 2011. Web: http://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/environment/eLand/HistoricEnvironment/BuiltEnvironment/Co nservationintheHighwayGuidanceDocument2011.pdf

178 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment around Monetville Drive is entirely of detached properties. Three schools with associated sports fields were provided to serve the community (cf. map 39).

A large housing estate at Western Downs was built in the late 20th century. The remainder of late 20th and early 21st century housing has been constructed as infilling or the redevelopment of earlier houses (cf. HCT ‘Suburban Redevelopment and Infill’ on map 39). That to the north side of Newport Road comprises both detached houses built within the formerly large gardens of the earlier properties fronting onto the road and an estate built upon the site of the late 19th century Highfield House. Housing infill during the late 20th century is also characteristic of the area to the west of Rowley Avenue, although the four large detached houses which were the first properties to be constructed here in the late 19th century survive.

The Grade II* Listed Upmeads House, lying to the north of Newport Road, is surrounded by later housing including within its original garden. The property dates to the early 20th century726.

These properties were built upon fields, but the origins of only a few of these field systems can be identified. The HCT ‘Planned Enclosure’ on map 9 were probably enclosed or re-planned in the 18th/19th century by surveyors using straight field boundaries and so creating fields and road systems with strong geometric patterns. By the late 19th century a landscape garden had been established to the south of Newport Road and some development had also begun to appear (cf. map 39 and map 9). However, these areas have been subject to substantial residential development in the late 20th/early 21st century (cf. map 39).

Part of the deserted medieval settlement of Monetville may have been located on the northern side of Castlebank, below Stafford Castle (see HUCA 18), just within this character area727. The precise location of the settlement has not been confirmed and it is possible that it may have extended over a wider area than has generally been supposed (cf. 2.5.3.2).

4.24.2 Heritage Values

Evidential value: There is the potential for evidence of the medieval Low settlement of Monetville to survive as below ground deposits in part of the HUCA. On the whole the area had formed part of a field system prior to its development during the 20th century. Historical value: Heritage assets are legible within the HUCA Medium principally the 19th and early 20th century properties which initialised development in this area and which include the Grade II* Upmeads House. Aesthetic value: The earliest historic character of large detached Low houses within their large gardens has been somewhat eroded during the late 20th century through infill development either on the site of the properties or within their gardens. Further west the HUCA

726 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08328 and PRN 20745 727 Staffordshire HER: PRN 04176

179 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment retains its character of mid and late 20th century suburban development. Communal value: The HUCA mostly comprises domestic dwelling Low and from a heritage perspective its value is low. 4.24.3 Recommendations

The heritage significance and values sections have identified limited historic interest within the HUCA principally in the form of the built environment, which include the Grade II* Upmeads House.

The heritage assets could make a positive contribution to economic regeneration of the town. In particular the promotion of the re-use of historic buildings to contribute to sustainable development is recommended (paras. 126 and 131 of NPFF)728. High quality design which is sympathetic to the historic built fabric is the key to retaining the local character of the area as identified in Bullet Point 4 of para. 17 (Core planning principles) and Bullet Point 4 of para. 58 in NPPF.

728 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 729 English Heritage 2012: http://www.helm.org.uk/guidance-library/good-practice-local- heritage-listing/ 730 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012.

180 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.25 HUCA 25: Forebridge

Map 40: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.25.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character

The character area incorporates one of the earliest suburbs in Stafford, Forebridge, whose origins date to the medieval period (cf. 2.5.3.1 and map 7). Evidence for the medieval suburbs has been discovered in archaeological excavations at Drakeford Court on Queensway (opposite White Lion Street) where a medieval property boundary and several pits were recorded (cf. map 40)731. The suburb was concentrated upon the main route out of Stafford, to the north of the HUCA, and around ‘The Green’. The latter was a large green whose form largely survived, albeit with some development, into the late 18th century. The historic street pattern survives in the line of Lichfield Road and

731 Staffordshire HER: PRN 50678, PRN 52532 and 52534

181 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

Wolverhampton Road, but the creation of the ring road in the mid 1970s has removed much of the earlier pattern. Several historic properties were also lost including the White Lion public house, which appeared to retain elements of a medieval high status timber-framed property732 (cf. 2.5.6.6). This medieval suburban expansion was probably associated with the establishment of the Austin Friary and St John’s Hospital (cf. 2.5.6.5 and 2.5.6.6). Human remains have been discovered during 19th and 21st century developments on the sites of both of these religious foundations733.

Map 40 reflects the redevelopment of large parts of the area of the medieval suburbs and the religious houses in particular HCTs ‘Large-scale Commercial and/or Industrial Sites’, ‘Other Non-Residential Development’ and ‘Commercial and Administrative’ which largely date to the mid to late 20th century. The areas identified as HCT ‘Suburban Redevelopment or Infill’ on map 40 originated in several periods from the post medieval (fronting onto Bridge Street), to the mid 19th century (adjacent to White Lion Street) and the late 20th century. The importance of the area of Post Medieval character within Bridge Street has been acknowledged through its inclusion in the Stafford Town Conservation Area (cf. map 13). This area includes the earliest known building within the HUCA, the Grade II Listed 7 to 10 Bridge Street, which probably stands upon the site of St John’s Hospital. The front of the row of buildings was extended forwards circa 1820 and presents a Georgian exterior of red brick, however, the rear retains its 17th century origins734. Also of historic interest within Bridge Street is the Grade II Listed former cinema, which was built in 1913735.

There are a further 20 Listed Buildings lying within the character area, the majority of which date to the 19th century and generally lie within the area of later suburban expansion along Lichfield Road and Wolverhampton Road (HCT ‘Suburb’ on map 40). The importance of the heritage assets to the character of the wider townscape has been acknowledge by the inclusion of Friars Road, Friars Walk and Bailey Street in the Stafford Town Conservation Area and of The Oval, Garden Street and part of Lichfield Street in the Forebridge Conservation area (cf. map 13).

The earliest property on Wolverhampton Road is the Presbytery to the Austin Friars Roman Catholic Church which was established in the late 18th century upon land believed to have been held by the friary in the medieval period. To the south of the church lies one of the largest areas of terraced housing in Stafford, although some later infilling mainly of semi-detached housing has occurred (HCT ‘Suburban Redevelopment or Infill’ on map 40). The streets for this development were laid out on either side of Wolverhampton Road during the late 19th century. The terraces are principally of red brick, although some have been roughcast or painted, and the variations in the architectural detailing of the properties indicate their piecemeal construction by individual

732 Staffordshire HER: PRN 52560 733 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00777, PRN 00789, PRN 03193 and PRN 00790 734 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08189 735 Staffordshire HER: PRN 12753

182 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment builders. An analysis of these streets would probably reveal further evidence of the social and economic history of Stafford during the 19th century.

The former Grammar School, now the Chetwynd Centre, stands on the edge of this area of late 19th century suburban expansion on Friars Road and is contemporary with this development. It is Grade II Listed and was built in the 1860s (cf. 2.7.4.3 and 2.8.3.3)736.

Map 41: Historic Buildings by period of origin

The suburban development along Lichfield Street, which began in the medieval or post medieval period, currently comprises large detached houses principally of early 19th century date (cf. map 41). However, the earliest surviving property along the road is the Grade II listed Green Hall737, where the shoe manufacturer Edwin Bostock lived in the mid 19th century. The extant building dates to circa 1810, but map evidence suggests that it stands upon the site of an earlier property present by at least the early 18th century (cf. 2.7.3.2). The property had originally stood in large gardens, but was developed in the late 19th century and named ‘The Oval’ with red brick semi- detached villas. Contemporary with Green Hall, and standing on the opposite

736 Staffordshire HER: PRN 14320 737 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08296

183 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment side of Lichfield Road, is the Grade II listed property which now forms part of St Joseph’s Convent (cf. map 410738. Further houses developed along Lichfield Road later in the 19th century, which comprise a mix of large semi- detached villas and further east are smaller terraced houses (HCTs ‘Suburb’ and ‘Suburb – Terraces’ on map 40). The Grade II listed St Paul’s Church dated 1844, and the contemporary St Paul’s School were constructed to serve the growing communities739.

The growth of the area in the mid to late 19th century may be linked to the arrival of the railway in circa 1837 and which forms the southern boundary to the HUCA. A Grade II Listed goods shed, dated 1860, is testimony to the importance of the railway to the social and economic history of the town.

4.25.2 Heritage values

Evidential value: Despite redevelopment over a number of High centuries previous archaeological work within the HUCA has demonstrated the survival of deposits of medieval date. Consequently there remains the potential for further archaeological deposits to survive particularly in the area of Forebridge and The Green. There is also the potential for historic buildings to retain earlier fabric within their structures. Historical value: Heritage assets dominate the majority of the High HUCA in the form of historic buildings and the associated street pattern. This association is particularly pertinent to the south where there are purpose built streets of terraces on both sides of Wolverhampton Road. The variety of housing types across the HUCA from the large villas on Lichfield Street to the smaller terraces all contribute to an understanding of the social and economic history of Stafford’s development as an industrial town in the 19th century. Green Hall in particular was, at least briefly, associated with the Stafford shoe trade. This is associated with the railway to the south where a Grade II listed goods shed survives. Aesthetic value: Although the northern portion of the HUCA has High seen considerable change during the 20th century with the construction of the ring road and commercial developments the historic character of 19th century suburban expansion is particularly well preserved. The significance of this expansion has been acknowledged in the designation of two Conservation Areas; part of Stafford Town Conservation Area and the Forebridge Conservation Area. The importance of individual buildings has been acknowledged in the 20 listed buildings. Communal value: The heritage assets can only be appreciated from Low street level, although interpretation may enhance the community and visitor appreciation and understanding.

4.25.3 Recommendations

738 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08292 739 Staffordshire HER: PRN 14090 and PRN 51884

184 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

The heritage significance and values has identified the importance of the historic built environment to the local character of the HUCA and its historic association with the railway.

Where alterations or changes are proposed within or adjacent to the Conservation Areas and/or any of the Listed Buildings then the applicant should consult with the Stafford Borough Conservation Officer should take place in the first instance; and refer to the Stafford Town Centre Conservation Area Appraisal where appropriate740. All of the designated heritage assets and their settings are covered under para. 132 of NPPF741.

The sympathetic restoration or enhancement of the historic buildings would strengthen the historic character and the quality of the wider townscape for the benefit of this and future generations (Bullet Point 10 of para 17 (Core planning principles) also paras. 126 and 131 of NPPF)742. Locally important buildings could be considered for local listing to ensure their contribution to a sense of place for the community and future generations. This is in line with the recent English Heritage guidance document entitled ‘Good practice for local heritage listing (2012)743.

There is a high potential for below ground archaeological deposits to survive across parts of the HUCA particularly relating to the areas of the earliest suburban activity. Where development may result in the loss of these heritage assets (whether wholly or in part) archaeological evaluation and/or mitigation may be required to record and advance the understanding of their significance; this is supported in para. 128 of NPPF744.

740 The Conservation Area Appraisal is accessible online at http://www.staffordbc.gov.uk/live/Documents/Forward%20Planning/Conservation/Stafford- Conservation-Area-Appraisal.pdf 741 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 742 Ibid. 743 English Heritage 2012: http://www.helm.org.uk/guidance-library/good-practice-local- heritage-listing/ 744 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012 745 Staffordshire County Council. 2011. Web: http://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/environment/eLand/HistoricEnvironment/BuiltEnvironment/Co nservationintheHighwayGuidanceDocument2011.pdf

185 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

186 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.26 HUCA 26: Lichfield Road

Map 42: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.26.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character

The character area is dominated by the large scale industrial works of G. E. C. Alstom and Areva T & D (cf. 2.8.4.3). The development of industry along the Lichfield Road dates from the early 20th century, with the site expanding following the Second World War. However, in the early 21st century part of the industrial works has been re-developed for large commercial units, a retail park, symptomatic of a decline in industry during the later the 20th century. It is unclear to what extent the early 20th century factory survives.

Within this area one historic building survives known as the ‘New Hough’. This building dates to the early 20th century and was built in the English Domestic Revival style; it was converted to a restaurant in the early 21st century746.

To the south west of the HUCA housing has been constructed upon the site of a former sports ground during the early 21st century (HCT ‘Suburb’ on map 42).

746 P. McKnight pers. comm..

187 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

Prior to the construction of part of the industrial site in the 20th century a Roman coin was found. However, this find probably represents a casual loss and does not add to our overall understanding of this landscape at this period.

4.26.2 Heritage values

Evidential value: The HUCA lies beyond the historic core of Stafford Low in an area which had formed farm land. There is the potential for early 20th century factory buildings to survive within the surviving industrial complex. Historical value: The New Hough is the only known legible heritage Low assets within the character area. Aesthetic value: The character is largely industrial in nature Low comprising large scale buildings which appear to be largely of mid to late 20th century date. Early 21st century retail and housing development is also represented. Communal value: From a heritage perspective there is little value. Low

4.26.3 Recommendations

The heritage assessment has identified little of historic or archaeological significance within the HUCA.

747 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf

188 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.27 HUCA 27: Queensville

Map 43: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.27.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character

The suburb of Queensville developed along the Lichfield Road in the late 19th century principally comprises semi-detached and detached villas. At a similar period St Leonard’s Avenue, Christopher Avenue and St George’s Road were laid out and lined with red brick terraced houses (HCT ‘Suburb – Terraces’ on map 43 and cf. map 11). The majority stand behind low brick garden walls. From the early 20th century Queensville Avenue was laid out as a private estate with semi-detached houses; some of which had detached garages and driveways (cf. map 11).

Both St Leonards Avenue and St George’s Road were extended in the mid 20th century with a mix of semi-detached and terraced houses (cf. map 11). The semi-detached properties were constructed with adjacent garages and

189 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment driveways. The mix of housing within the HUCA therefore reflects the change in social and architectural ideals between the late Victorian and the 20th century ‘inter-war’ period.

The Grade II Listed St Leonard’s School stands on the corner of Lichfield Road and St Leonard’s Avenue and was built of red brick in the Arts and Crafts style between circa 1910 and 1915 (cf. map 43).

The name St Leonard’s was taken from the medieval hospital believed to have been located in the vicinity of the extant school748 (cf. 2.5.6.6 and map 5). During the development of some of the houses along the Lichfield Road in the late 19th century human remains were discovered which are likely to have been buried in the cemetery attached to the hospital749.

4.27.2 Heritage values

Evidential value: Despite the development of this area between the Medium late 19th and mid 20th century there remains the potential for below archaeological deposits to survive particularly relating to the site of the medieval hospital. The suburban houses potentially retain architectural indicators relating to the aspirations of the developers and the original inhabitants. Historical value: The legible heritage assets largely comprise Medium historic suburban houses and several purpose built streets. The architectural forms of the different building types across the HUCA reveal the social and economic history of suburban expansion in this area of Stafford. The built environment reflects the social standing and aspirations of the original inhabitants of the HUCA in the surviving architectural forms. Aesthetic value: The HUCA is characterised by suburban Medium development and the associated Grade II listed school. The historic character of the HUCA makes a positive contribution to the local sense of place within the suburban areas of the town and provides an insight into the changing fashion in the built form of suburbs between the late 19th and the early/mid 20th century. Communal value: The HUCA mostly comprises domestic dwellings Low and from a heritage perspective its value is low.

4.27.3 Recommendations

748 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00778 749 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00779

190 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

The listed building and its settings is covered under para. 132 of NPPF750. Consultation with the Stafford Borough Conservation Officer should take place in the first instance.

The sympathetic restoration or enhancement of the historic buildings would strengthen the historic character and the quality of the wider townscape for the benefit of this and future generations (Bullet Point 10 of para 17 (Core planning principles) also paras. 126 and 131 of NPPF)751. Locally important buildings could be considered for local listing to ensure their contribution to a sense of place for the community and future generations. This is in line with the recent English Heritage guidance document entitled ‘Good practice for local heritage listing’ (2012)752.

There is the potential for below ground archaeological deposits to survive across parts of the HUCA and particularly relating to the line of the burh and town defences. Where development may result in the loss of these heritage assets (whether wholly or in part) archaeological evaluation and/or mitigation may be required to record and advance the understanding of their significance; this is supported in para. 128 of NPPF753.

750 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf 751 Ibid. 752 English Heritage 2012: http://www.helm.org.uk/guidance-library/good-practice-local- heritage-listing/ 753 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. 754 Staffordshire County Council. 2011. Web: http://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/environment/eLand/HistoricEnvironment/BuiltEnvironment/Co nservationintheHighwayGuidanceDocument2011.pdf

191 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

4.28 HUCA 28: Risingbrook & Rickerscote

Map 44: HCTs and the known heritage assets from the HER

4.28.1 Statement of heritage significance and built character

The historic character of the HUCA is dominated by suburban expansion (map 44). The housing which comprises Rising Brook, Rickerscote and parts of Burton Manor (the western and south western portions of the HUCA) was built during the mid 20th century along with four schools (HCT ‘Suburban’ and ‘Educational Facility’ on map 44; cf. map 11). In the north eastern portion of the HUCA at Silkmore and in part of Queensville, there is a greater diversity in the built character of the area and in its origins. Whilst the largest area still comprises housing this was constructed in three distinct periods (cf. map 11). Those houses lying to the south of Silkmore Lane, principally semi-detached houses in a series of cul-de-sacs, were built in the early 20th century. The houses to the north east of Queensville were built in the late 20th century. The area to the north of Silkmore Lane, identified as HCT ‘Suburban Redevelopment or Infill’ was built in the early 21st century upon the site of an early to mid 20th century concrete factory (cf. 2.8.4.3). To the north of this housing is a retail park (HCT ‘Large-scale Commercial or Industrial Sites’ on map 44) which was constructed in the late 20th century.

192 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

To the east, beyond the EUS boundary, the landscape is dominated by former wetlands which lie between the rivers Sow and Penk. The area is crossed by a network of drains which extend into this HUCA. This drainage may initially have been carried out in the mid 19th century as part of a wider programme of works around Stafford (cf. 2.7.5.3).

The earliest identifiable settlement within the HUCA lies on the eastern boundary at Rickerscote (HCT ‘Irregular Historic Plots’ on map 44). A settlement with this name was recorded in Domesday Book (1086) suggesting occupation by at least the 11th century (cf. 2.4.2 and 2.5.3.2). The areas defined as ‘Irregular Historic Plots’ may represent the location of the medieval settlement, although none of the extant historic properties have been closely dated and many are likely to have been rebuilt.

The area of Silkmore was also recorded in Domesday Book, but is included in the multiple entry for the Bradley manor and so it is not possible to estimate how many, if any, people may have lived in the area at this time. By the late 19th century only three properties appear to be associated with Silkmore; Little Silkmore, Silkmore House and Silkmore Farm (cf. map 44). The latter had been associated with a landscape park755, but this area has been substantially impacted by later housing development.

Besides the likely settlement areas the majority of the HUCA has been developed upon a field system which was probably enclosed in piecemeal fashion during the post medieval period (‘Piecemeal Enclosure’ cf. 2.6.5.2). This field pattern had originated as part of a medieval open field system (cf. 2.5.4.2 and map 6). In the western and south western portion three isolated farmsteads had been established to farm the landscape by the late 19th century; only one farmhouse, that belonging to Hill Farm, survives (map 39).

Both the A449 (Rising Way/Border Way/Moss Pit) and the railway bisect the character area on a north-south alignment, whilst the A34 (Queensville) crosses on an east-west alignment to the east. The railway line was constructed circa 1837 as the Grand Junction Line and currently forms part of the West Coast Mainline linking London, the West Midlands, the North West and central Scotland756. The A449 (north-south) links Stafford to Wolverhampton, which was also an important town from the medieval period onwards and was similarly famed for its cloth industry. However, it has been suggested that this route may have had its origins in the Roman period (cf. 2.2) and has clearly been an important route ever since. The eastern route, the A34, existed in at least the medieval period, although again this may have much earlier origins (cf. 2.1, 2.2 and 2.5.7).

Little archaeological work has been carried out within the character area and the only information regarding human activity dates to the late prehistoric period and is a Neolithic/Bronze Age flint tool found at Risingbrook757. This

755 Staffordshire HER: PRN 40127 756 Sherlock 1976: 131; Wikipedia Web 03/08/2011 757 Staffordshire HER: PRN 52417

193 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment find probably represents a casual loss and does not add to our overall understanding of the landscape at this period.

4.28.2 Heritage Values

Evidential value: Whilst the majority of the HUCA had probably Medium formed part of an open field system during the medieval period there remains the potential for archaeological deposits to survive associated with early areas of settlement. Of particular note is the historic core of Rickerscote, but also potentially the sites of the farmsteads. The historic buildings, including those at Rickerscote and Hill House Farm, also have the potential to retain details pertaining to their origins which could contribute to the social and economic history of the settlement in this part of Stafford within their fabric. There is also the potential for archaeological sites to survive in the area of the drained wetland; particularly as below ground deposits below the alluvium sealed beneath the alluvium. This potential may also include the survival of palaeoenvironmental remains within these areas. Historical value: There are few legible heritage assets within the Medium character area, but the historic properties and the diversity of the suburban growth contribute to an understanding of the social and economic history of the HUCA. Aesthetic value: The historic character of the HUCA is dominated Low by 20th century suburban development although earlier buildings survive, particularly at Rickerscote, which contribute to a local sense of place. Communal value: The HUCA mostly comprises domestic dwellings Low and from a heritage perspective its value is limited.

4.28.3 Recommendations

The assessment of the heritage assets has identified a degree of heritage interest within the HUCA particularly around Rickerscote, but also including the historical lines of communication and the potential for archaeological deposits to survive.

The heritage assets could make a positive contribution to economic regeneration of the town. In particular the promotion of the re-use of historic buildings to contribute to sustainable development is recommended (paras. 126 and 131 of NPFF)758. High quality design which is sympathetic to the historic built fabric is the key to retaining the local character of the area as identified in Bullet Point 4 of para. 17 (Core planning principles) and Bullet Point 4 of para. 58 in NPPF.

Individual properties could be considered for local listing to acknowledge their contribution to the local sense of place in line with

758 Department for Communities and Local Government 2012. Web: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf

194 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

the recent English Heritage guidance document entitled ‘Good practice for local heritage listing’ (2012)759.

There is a high potential for below ground archaeological deposits to survive within the particular areas of the HUCA. Where development may result in the loss of these heritage assets (whether wholly or in part) archaeological evaluation and/or mitigation may be required to record and advance the understanding of their significance; this is supported in para. 128 of NPPF760.

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ONLINE

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Staffordshire County Council. 2011. Conservation in the highways. Staffordshire County Councl web: http://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/environment/eLand/HistoricEnvironment/Built Environment/ConservationintheHighwayGuidanceDocument2011.pdf

English Heritage. 2012. Good practice for local heritage listing. HELM web: http://www.helm.org.uk/guidance-library/good-practice-local-heritage-listing/

Staffscc.net. nd. ‘Lotus Ltd’ staffs.net web 27 July 2011. http://staffscc.net/shoes1/?p=29

Staffscc.net. nd.a. ‘Universal Grinding Wheel Co Ltd’. staffs.net web 01 August 2011. http://staffscc.net/shoes1/?p=86

Staffscc.net. nd.b. ‘W. H. Dorman & Co. Ltd’ staffs.net web 01 August 2011. http://staffscc.net/shoes1/?p=102

Wikipedia Online. ‘West Coast Main Line’. Web. 03 August 2011. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/West_Coast_Main_Line

Wrottesley, G (ed.). 1886 "Staffordshire Lay Subsidy, 1327: Cuttlestone hundred." Staffordshire Historical Collections, vol. 7, part 1: 236-246. British History Online. Web. 22 July 2011. http://www.british- history.ac.uk/report.aspx?compid=52473

MAPS AND PLANS

WSL 55/2/74. circa 1600. Copy of map of Stafford “made, apparently, after the fall of St Mary’s steeple (1593) but before the building of the stone bridge over sow at the Broadeye ante 1611”.

WSL 66/92. 1681. Stafford Town Plan.

199 DRAFT – Staffordshire EUS: Stafford Historic Character Assessment

200